As we continue to navigate the challenges of a global health crisis, we are more painfully aware of the ongoing “pandemic” of violence against women, which has been exacerbated and further exposed during COVID-19. Acknowledging this issue as vital to our gospel faith, the Heads of Communion of Churches Beyond Borders called for this year’s devotions to focus on gender-based violence, looking at both awareness and healing. 

This booklet contains 16 devotions, timed with and inspired by the annual United Nations campaign, 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. The campaign runs from Nov. 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to Dec. 10 (International Human Rights Day). We invite you to use these devotions not only for the 16 days in November and December—for Advent—but also throughout the year, whenever Mary’s Song calls to you and your congregations.