ABSTRACT
The chapter explores how Christian religious actors can be agents in preventing and responding to violence against women and girls (VAWG), using the conceptual framework of religious ideas, religious practices, religious organisation and religious experiences. First, the religious ideas as encapsulated in the Bible are explored as a unique entry point into challenging beliefs and practices that promote VAWG. Second, reflecting on religious practices highlights the importance of understanding and responding to context. A thorough understanding of the religious landscape is what allows engagement with and leveraging of religious practices for VAWG prevention and response and is crucial to successful engagement around VAWG. Third, the organisational structure of churches highlights the potential of religious leaders in addressing VAWG. At the same time, engaging religious leadership should avoid blindly reinforcing existing patriarchal power hierarchies by (simplistically) only engaging with the top-level leaders within churches.
