The United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) celebrated Justice Week from 30 September to 6 October.
An annual event, Justice Week galvanised the church to bear witness to God’s mission of justice and righteousness at all levels of society. This year, the event was themed around “Faith in Action: Together for Justice and Healing.”
The event served as a yearly reminder that the UCCSA is not only concerned with ecclesiastical matters but is also a societal beacon shining a light on the wellbeing of all God’s people, especially those who are oppressed, abused, sick, poor, and downtrodden. Justice Week brought the church to together in prayer and solidarity with communities near and far.
“The UCCSA Justice Week serves as a vital reminder of our commitment to justice and compassion within society. This year, we place the focus on the urgent needs of communities affected by the recent floods in Malawi. The UCCSA Mission Council, through the office of the Ministry and Mission Secretary, will coordinate the collection of church uniforms and clothes as part of our UCCSA Day celebrations, reinforcing our solidarity with those impacted,” said Rev. Wellington Mthobisi Sibanda, Media Officer of the UCCSA.
The first Justice Week took place in 2010 to raise awareness of global poverty and poverty in the countries in which UCCSA has member churches. The UCCSA and its forebears have always had a passion for justice. Testimony of this commitment to justice is seen in the social location of their mission work among the poor and marginalised.
Since its formation in 1967, UCCSA has had an unequivocal stance with and for the poor, standing on the side of the oppressed. Over this long history of ministry and witness, UCCSA has taken a stand as an advocate for peace and justice.
Since 2007 UCCSA has deepened its commitment to community empowerment, justice, and peace with the establishment of two awards: The UCCSA Congregational Justice and Peace Award as well as the Community Empowerment Award.
The UCCSA Congregational Justice and Peace Award is conferred to a group, institution, or individuals who are envoys of justice and peace in societies.
The Community Empowerment Award seeks to recognise and honour members of the UCCSA who are involved in development, empowerment, and improvement of the socioeconomic conditions of their communities.