Concerned about climate change? So are many Christians and this latest newsletter has much to offer on this important issue.

The Methodist, Baptist, and United Reformed churches, together with the Quakers, have produced a special briefing outlining their shared concerns about the Climate Change Bill going through Parliament. Contact the Joint Public Issues team on 020 7916 8632 or email wendy.cooper@urc.org.uk for a copy. Alternatively, read the briefing online at www.jointpublicissues.org.uk/jpit_climate_change_bill_ch_members_briefing_150108.pdf

Even if you do nothing else, please reflect and pray about climate change. To help, the Methodist Relief and Development Fund has produced a FREE Lent Pack on the theme: What does the Bible say about climate change? See the newsletter for details of how to order.

On a congruent issue, the Micah Challenge is an international coalition of Christian organisations and churches united to fight global poverty by supporting the Millennium Development Goals. There are loads of resources, information, videos and campaign materials to help churches in our District get involved. Details in the newsletter.

Meanwhile, rising personal debt in the UK has reached record levels. We’re now in the patently unsustainable position of owing more than the value of everything we produce in every office, shop and factory in the UK. “A Matter of Life and Debt” is an online resource produced by the Church of England. It includes case studies, links to helpful organisations, and prayers for people in debt.

“Home” is a new play based on the book of Exodus. It’s performed by a Christian professional theatre company and it’s on tour. If you’d like a performance in your church – or just find out where you can go to see it – the details are in the newsletter.

Read on….

Peter Collins
Public Issues Co-ordinator.