Church vigil in Greenock to end violence against women

St Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Patrick Street will open its doors to people all faiths and none as the community takes a stand to bring about an end to violence in the home and within families as part of a worldwide movement. 

They are coming together with local women's rights campaigner, Councillor Francesca Brennan, as part of a global 16 days of activism, which this year focuses on violence in the home and in families.

Bishop John Keenan will once again lead the ecumenical service.

This year Inverclyde's Women's Aid will play a key role as they read out the testimonies of women forced to flee their own homes.

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Councillor Brennan said: "Last year the service was so well supported, we felt it was important to take a stand again.

"We are inviting everyone in the community to unite. We have secondary schools involved again this year with mentors coming along.

"I think it is important we all take a stand. This is about giving people a voice.

"I have also spoken with Women's Aid and they will be involved. They will speak about women's experiences in a sensitive and meaningful way.

"I am so glad that Bishop John and Father Tom Boyle are involved again."

Bishop Keenan spoke about the role the church should play in supporting women in the community.

He said: "We know from St Luke's Gospel that Jesus gave an important and prominent role for women and that carries on into the early church.

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"The church has a full role to play in ensuring that women and girls, and this, for me, is why we must lead this. That is why we are having this service for people of all faiths and none. 

"It is important the church leads on this."

The vigil takes place on Sunday, December 8 at 2pm and will be followed by a special gathering in the church hall.