VANDERBIJLPARK.- The African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, through its different divisions and other alliance partners, marched to the Vanderbijlpark Police Station recently.

The march commenced from Quest Conference Estate and was aimed at raising awareness about the rapid rise of gender-based violence (GBV) in society. The march also marks the start of the AME Church’s 2025 Mid-Year Conference under the theme “Revive Us Again: Reviving Our Connection to Jesus.”

The rally was supported by the following components:

• AME Lay Organisation
• Richard Allen Young Adult Council
• YPD (Young People’s Division) within the AME Church and,
• The Women’s Missionary Society

“In the wake of persistent inaction and the absence of a coherent national response plan to escalating GBV cases, the AME Church is taking a stand. Prayers alone are not enough. We demand action,” a statement/memorandum by the church revealed.

“This is (also) a public call to all churches, civic organisations, advocacy groups, and concerned citizens to stand together in solidarity. The march forms part of a broader spiritual and social justice programme, aimed at restoring moral leadership and advocacy from the pulpit to the streets.”