“God of life, give us the strength to hold high the living word."

On the 8th of March [2004], almost 700 members of the Popular Women’s Organization (OFP) of the Middle Magadalena region [of Colombia] commemorated International Woman’s Day with the slogan “women take the streets." These women struggle for a dignified life, living in the middle of an armed conflict.

“May trust in you fill my daily endeavors."

CPTers went to three of the OFP’s “Women’s Houses” in Barrancabermeja -- considered by the organization to be most at risk (of paramilitary attack) -- and made ourselves available to accompany every woman and man present. There were flowers, music, banners, chocolate, and beautiful people with smiles; but there was also present the fear that the paramilitaries could ruin this celebration.

“Forgive me and help me to forgive the bringers of pain and violence.”

After a few moments of coordination and preparation at the OFP headquarters all the invited guests (Social, Human Rights, Peasant, Church and Union organizations, the media and others) took buses to the City Hall. There, all the women of the OFP linked hands and laid in the streets forming a large living human body feeling the rhythm of their slogans, applauses and especially their firm belief that women have rights that are demanded and need to be respected by all members of society. Most of the women wore a black robe as symbol of their opposition to the war.

“Lord of Life, protect our sons, daughters and our homes."

After the action, which gained the attention of the mayor who finally agreed to a meeting with the OFP that had been requested several weeks ago, [the women] marched up the main street and hundreds of voices called for peace, dignity and civility. “It’s better to live with fear than to stop living because of fear. We won't bear or raise children for the war. Not another man nor woman nor peso for the war.”

“Lord of life, protect us from so much hate and perverted minds."

When the march ended, everyone gathered at a city park and recited the Prayer for Civility, where we affirmed that God is the one who can guide us on the path of forgiveness that builds and looks for life for everyone in Colombia.

“Lord of life, permit us to enjoy the strength
that is felt in being together."

And the CPTers? We walked the whole time along this river of life feeling really happy to be able to participate in this event. We were at the side of an organization with a purpose of being clearly against violence. We believe that all and every single human being has the possibility and the responsibility to sincerely commit ourselves to build a world of hope. And I, as a Colombian, felt a great desire to lie on the ground with these women, without taking off my CPT shirt!! I think my teammates felt the same.....

"For civility, for life, for the Word. Guide us in every moment. AMEN."

Gratitude to CPT for use of their logo.