In this Edition: The strange public truth of the Christian Gospel Tim Farron Andy Flannagan The act of praying
FAITH IN ACTION
2019-2020
LDCF: ABOUT US LDCF is a Christian voice in the Party and a voice of liberal democracy amongst Christians. We do this by: Speaking out about issues of injustice to impact policy and create change. Acting as a bridge between the Christian community and the Party through relationship-building and encouraging both communities to connect and work together. Inspiring Christians to become more politically engaged, to see politics as mission and a way of seeking justice for their community and nation. Underpinning all that we do with prayer, and praying regularly for our government and nation.
and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God Micah 6:8
Connect with us: Liberal Democrat Christian Forum @ LibDemCF libdemcf
Note from
the Chair
M
y 3 year tenure as Chair of LDCF is now coming to an end. It has been a privilege that I have very much enjoyed. Alongside the growth in party membership, we have seen the membership of LDCF grow exponentially but it was during a review of party organisations that we realised that we are the third largest organisation in the party behind Liberal Youth and ALDC.
Lizzie Jewkes is Chair of the LDCF, a Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the Liberal Democrat Party and runs her own business in Chester. It was this realisation that prompted the decision to apply for SAO status. It took over a year, but having gained the approval of the AORG and of the Federal Board, I was quite overwhelmed when last September, Conference voted to give LDCF SAO status. This means that we have the right to submit policy motions in our name, to nominate candidates for Federal Committees. The Party has to consult us on the manifesto and we have link persons on Federal Committees to ensure our voice is heard. I wish to thank everyone who has supported me over the past three years with particular thanks to Kirsten Johnson who served as my Vice Chair until she was selected as PPC for the previously held seat of North Devon. I wish Kirsten every success is regaining the seat. Thank you also to Tim Young for stepping in as Vice-Chair after Kirsten’s departure. As we celebrate the election to parliament of another of our members and former Exec member Jane Dodds, thanks go to all of you for being the voice of Christians in the Liberal Democrats.
Contents The Strange Public Truth of the Christian Gospel Karen Klair
02
Faith in Action Tim Farron
04
SECTION 1 LIVING OUT GOD’S WORD
Who Am I? Andy Flannagan
06
Making the Bible Relevant Today: A Spiritual Lifeline in the Middle East SAT-7
08
SECTION 2 LEADING BY EXAMPLE
How Faith shapes Politics: Leading by Example Lord Newby
10
Climate Breakdown is every Christian’s business Rachel Lewis
12
SECTION 3 BEARING WITNESS
Bearing Fruit in Old Age Carl Knightly
14
Finger on the Pulse
16
SECTION 4 THOSE WHO STEP UP
Speaking Truth to Power Christian Aid
17
Perspective from Mainland Europe Nathan Goodearl
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SECTION 5 OUR STORIES OF FAITH IN ACTION
How my Christian Faith led me into Politics Fred Till
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Bearing Witness: Young Christians transforming Politics Jack Moore
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SECTION 6 CHRISTIANITY & LIBERAL DEMOCRACY IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Christianity & Liberal Democracy in the 21st Century Amy Fortnam
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SECTION 7 PRAYER AND ACTION
The Act of Praying
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The Strange Public Truth of the
Christian T
im Farron in his article on Faith in Action picks up on the phrase used in this title from Tom Wright’s book ‘God in Public’. It sums up my experience and encapsulates the challenge I would like to make to our membership.
So, how is the public truth of the Christian gospel strange? It is strange to declare that the story of a public execution and publicly-witnessed resurrection holds on-going power and hope for all, particularly in an age which has moved beyond metanarratives, relegated the practice of faith to private, and brought selfactualisation out from our own private lives to become the greatest good for every individual simultaneously. It is also strange in the context of the ‘strange’ world of politics? Westminster at present has come to
Gospel
LDCF Director, Karen Klair, reflects on the real need in politics for a liberalism understood through the gospel meta-narrative, spoken of and served in the public sphere.
resemble the game ‘blind man’s bluff’: groping around in the dark, desiring to lay hold of something – impossible though that is to see or describe. This aimlessness is now tearing through the very constitutional fabric of the United Kingdom. We should not be surprised at this. A king once said, “Where there is no vision, people perish.” Where there is no possibility for vision, there is no possibility for articulating a worthwhile, shared goal, and where there is no articulation, there is no possibility for consensus. And what vision do Christians present – what public truth – at this present time? Our gospel declares that freedom lies in becoming Christlike, not more self-like. This turns us outwards to our relations with our community, in families, churches and neighbourhoods. Progress depends on our humility and confidence in actively pursuing the Christ-like pattern.
Progress is not gained by waiting for the path ahead forged by any other government to prove so insufferable that the situation demands a pragmatic alliance of voters to bring change. My challenge, then, is this: do not let the public truth of the gospel be something which society is estranged from – by our silence or our inaction. Rather, model the embrace of a strange life which pursues freedom in service of the freedom of others: for it is for freedom Christ has set us free. This magazine demonstrates that acting out our faith in the public sphere is a powerful tool. The articles within this magazine act as an encouragement to those who have been emboldened by their faith to step up, step out and serve Christ in the public sphere, rooted and established in scripture, following the example of Christ and bearing witness to His calling on our lives. So sit back, enjoy the read – and then get up and get out there!
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Faith in Action Christianity is counter cultural and deeply disturbing because it tells us that we are not our own gods and that we owe everything to the One who is God Tim Farron MP
F
aith communities are the UK’s hidden power houses of community support and nurture.
At this very moment many faith groups and individuals are beavering away quietly across the nation, providing food banks, debt advice centres, homeless shelters, family support services, toddler groups, community cafes and many other services. 04
Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Services provided from religious buildings, and mostly by teams of volunteers, giving their time freely for their communities. The Cinammon Network estimates the value of the time given by members of faith organisations to this type of work at about ÂŁ3 billion per year. These are vital services that government cannot or will not put in place, and which have a hugely positive impact on those who access them. And yet
the majority of the public do not appear to know they are being carried out. Barna research on the UK church published in 2018 found that 81% of nonChristians interviewed did not believe that churches were making a positive difference in the world. Another study from 2015 found that 41% of adults either did not see a local role for the church or could not imagine what it would be. Why is this such a hidden industry? Faith groups are integral to their local communities, and the work that they do is generally unobtrusive, a quiet part of the fabric of local life. But it is curious and maybe even a little sad that the public either doesn’t perceive or appreciate the work of the church and other faith organisations. Christians are told not to do good works in order to receive praise or recognition for ourselves, but I think it is good to celebrate the work of others. I think it is simply odd that the positive impact of faith groups isn’t understood, and this presents us with a clear challenge to highlight the positive outworkings of our faith, and the way in which this has a tangible effect on lives across the UK. Faith groups serve their communities from within and they are there for the long haul. Long after the lottery-funded community project round the corner has exhausted its three years of money and packed up with its tail between its legs, the local faith group will continue to be committed to that community. If you believe in a God who compels us to love and to serve, you will do so year in, year out and you will make sacrifices to do those things. For many in politics, this feels uncomfortable and alien.
Good. Christianity is counter cultural and deeply disturbing because it tells us that we are not our own gods and that we owe everything to the One who is God. Why are there so many projects of this nature going on? For Christians, we are compelled by our faith to love our neighbours as ourselves. Our neighbour cannot merit our help on their own, just as we do not merit God’s love, but if God can show love, grace and mercy to us who don’t deserve it then my response to that love must be to show the same love, grace and mercy to others. It is not a question of carrying out good works in order to ‘get into heaven’, or even about converting people to faith. It is about living amongst and alongside others in our fallen world, as a community of believers acting as salt and light of Christ in our society. It is also a reminder that we do not need to be involved in frontline politics to be making a difference in our communities (although I would of course recommend doing both!). Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we see that God has chosen not to withdraw from the mess that we have made of his creation, but to become one of us, and to act from within the world to put it to rights. This is what theologian Tom Wright calls the “strange public truth of the Christian gospel”. God is remaking the world; turning it the right way up; and he calls us to be part of his plan. We have a great hope as Christians, that one day Christ will renew and redeem all things. And whilst we wait in anticipation for this to happen, we are to spend time going out among our communities in his Spirit, and calling those in authority to acts of justice and mercy that will anticipate this final putting of everything to rights. 05
SECTION 1
LIVING OUT GOD’s WORD
Who Am I? Andy Flannagan (Executive Director, Christians in Politics) the new creation. Above all else - we need to know who we are in Christ, and who Christ is in us.
I
n politics, identity is too often easily transferable and contextual. When our identity is up-for-grabs, sadly so to is our integrity and purpose. Our rudder will be pushed by the prevailing tide, rather than held by a firm hand.
The identity of present-day political tribes can be just as overpowering as the images of Caesar that commanded worship in the days of the early church. Yet they refused to bow, even when it caused them serious trouble and hardship. But lest we think that political identities are the only ones that can usurp our true identity, it is worth noting that those who do not engage in politics may well be accepting identities as consumers rather than participants – ignoring the call to be kings and priests in 06
Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Coming from Northern Ireland I am sadly all too aware of what happens when tribal identities start to take precedence over our primary identity. When you are not firmly rooted in your identity in Christ, you grab much too strongly for, and cling much too tightly to national, tribal or political flags. The spectre of Brexit also hovers fairly close when we ponder such things. Will we be those who reach out in reconciliation beyond our tribe? So who am I? I’m a child of God. I am the righteousness of God in Christ. I’m saved by grace, beloved of God, and I’m on a mission. His mission. Our primary allegiance must be to the King of Kings, and not to any earthly kingdom. That is easy to say, but hard to do in a very tribal political environment. In our fear, we seek the protection of a tribe, so we are tempted to toe the line of the tribe. Could we instead seek the favour and protection of the ultimate authority? There are some good tests of where our primary allegiances lie. There are our gut
responses to those from another political tribe – do we listen for the good in what they say, wanting the kingdom for their lives and their party, or do we have an automatic rejection response to their words and actions. There is our inner ‘cheering’ or ‘booing’ on hearing news of successes and defeats. Do we care more about God’s will being done on the earth or our party winning? Do we perhaps believe that those two things are always synonymous? Theology, not ideology must be the driver – and our theology (or the mind of Christ) should be formed by the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. In the last century many Christians in public life were either hardened to society, abandoning social engagement to preserve some integrity of faith, or simply compromised. Surely we are called to reject those two easier paths. Our primary tribal identity must be in Jesus. We are in his tribe. It has to be Kingdom first and earthly tribes second. It’s important to be in a tribe (otherwise where would the salt and light come from?), but it’s important not to lose your identity to it. One way of making sure this happens is by regularly reading Scripture. As I listen or read I am regularly surprised by the words I hear. God is so much more surprising than I give him credit for. If you read scripture and keep reading it, it would appear God is more radical about finances, structures, and justice than some of my more conservative friends would like and more passionate about personal holiness or sexual ethics than some of my more liberal friends would like. The theologian Tom Wright (in his book “How God became King”) points out that in life we will always need progressive moments (when things change) and we will also always need conservative moments
(when things stay the same). History is littered with both being significant. There are moments in parenting when parents know that a progressive response is required (“okay you can watch that now”), and moments when a conservative response is required (“No. there is a reason we don’t pour water on the laptop”). One size doesn’t always fit all. We need to be in those tribes, but the danger is getting lost in one tribe or the other, abandoning our need to consult with God on any given issue, and instead just adopting the tribal instinctive reaction. The twitter and blogosphere is sadly littered with these sort of instant tribal knee-jerk reactions rather than responses based on mature reflection or prayer. Sometimes we just need to take a breath. So how is your breathing? Are you breathing the clean mountain air, drawing inspiration from those who have gone before, from ancient wisdom, from scripture? Or are you stuck in a crowded underground train breathing the dusty recycled air of the immediate, of social media, of what’s happening right now? We obviously need both, but the temptation in 2019 is to forget about the mountain. Is it time to go for a long walk, scale the heights, take a breath and be reminded of where our true identity is found?
The theological backbone and biblical context for our call into political engagement is more fully laid out by Andy in his book “Those Who Show Up” go to: bit.ly/showupbook Also available as e-book. 07
SECTION 1
LiVING OUT GOD’s WORD
Making the Bible Relevant Today:
A Spiritual Lifeline in the Middle East
W
hat is your picture of the Church in the Middle East? Is it a church of 3,000 meeting in over five congregations close to Cairo’s Tahrir Square? Or a thousand Berber believers listening attentively to Bible teaching in North Central Algeria? How about 25 million people, from Morocco to Afghanistan, watching live broadcasts from these churches and following other Christian programmes in their own languages?
SAT-7 - Learn more at sat7uk.org, or for updates and a twice-yearly magazine, go to sat7uk.org/subscribe. Contact SAT-7 Partnerships Officer, Dave Mann, at dave@sat7uk.org Since 1996, Christian satellite network SAT-7 has given the churches of this region a powerful media platform to witness to God’s love. Today it does that through four 24/7 channels in Arabic, Persian and Turkish. Of course, not all churches in the region are large and overflowing. In some states, believers must meet in secret. But the value of these broadcasts to struggling Christian communities, isolated believers and those exploring Christianity for the first time is immense. “Thank you for the live streaming,” wrote Labeeb, a viewer living in Iraq who watches SAT-7’s Cairo church broadcasts. “Your ministry is such a blessing. You take us into the heavens.” By using satellite television, SAT-7 bypasses state
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Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
censorship to reach people in the privacy of their homes. And its programmes are diverse – not only church services, but also discussion shows, documentaries, music broadcasts, children’s activity magazines, health and educational programming, even drama. The 20 million Christians of the Middle East and North Africa face many challenges. SAT-7, with three studios in the region and two in Europe, works to strengthen and empower them. SAT-7’s north London studio, for example, enables expatriate Iranians to support hundreds of thousands of spiritually hungry people in their home country. What does it mean to live for Christ in Iran or Afghanistan when a family member is a drug addict, a spouse is unfaithful, or a collapsing economy makes it almost impossible to put bread on the table? Or when you know the authorities are spying on you? These are some of the questions our presenters and our support staff, who take calls from viewers, seek to answer.
Some of the challenges facing Arab viewers are similar to these, though not all. They may be coping with injustice, facing discrimination or have lost their homes through war. Women, even in Christian families, may have limited choices because of traditional attitudes. SAT-7 seeks to address the full range of social issues from clear biblical perspectives, stressing the God-given dignity and equality of all. In Turkey, a relatively tiny Christian community seeks to encourage and disciple its members and to dispel ignorance and prejudice about Christianity among outsiders. A failed “Arab Spring”, devastating conflicts, and authoritarian regimes have left many in despair. The Middle East Church, however, seeks to be a voice of hope. Through SAT-7 it has a powerful tool to nourish its members and share God’s love freely and widely. Or, in Jesus’ words, to “all who are thirsty” (John 7:37).
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SECTION 2
Leading by example
How Faith Shapes Politics:
Leading by example
I
’m sure that everyone would agree that one of the most effective ways in which Christians can bear witness to their faith is to “lead by example”. This however merely begs the question of what example one is trying to set.
For me, the injunction in Micah to “act justly, love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” is a good starting point. Of this three-part requirement, the first – acting justly – is perhaps something which all politicians would find easiest to sign up to. It’s sometimes easier said than done however, as popular opinion can clamour for unjust behaviours. Theresa May, a very active Christian, was thought by many to have acted extremely unjustly towards Caribbean immigrants under her hostile environment policy, yet I’m sure she considers herself to be a fundamentally just person. The polls and her supporters cheered her on, but this couldn’t mask the injustice. No politician would claim not to love mercy, but, again, populist pressures can lead politicians to act mercilessly - witness President Trump’s detention camps for children on the Mexican border.
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Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Lord Newby is leader of the Liberal Democrats in the House of Lords. He started his political life in the Labour Party, joined the SDP in 1983 and then the Liberal Democrat Party. He has been instrumental in the Party’s election campaigns, as press officer to Paddy Ashdown and subsequently as Campaign Chair. He was also Charles Kennedy’s Chief of Staff during his period as Leader. His wife Alisa is Canon Pastor at Ripon Cathedral.
Humility is often neither valued nor practiced... one of the greatest strengths of a successful politician is his/her ability to listen For a front-line politician, however on a day-to-day basis, the hardest part of this injunction is often to “walk humbly”. Politics is an arena of big egos, vaunting ambition and restless energy. Personal media coverage can easily lead to a vastly inflated sense of self-importance. Humility is often neither valued nor practiced. But I would contend that it is greatly undervalued. One of the greatest strengths of a successful politician is his/her ability to listen. Only by listening to voters and colleagues can you understand their concerns and thereby earn their support. Opinion polls can do some of this for you, but I find that listening to voters on the doorstep or to colleagues who have expertise or local credibility tells me more than what is on their minds than any poll convincingly can. Humility also allows one to accept that you might be wrong. Admitting that you are wrong is widely seen as a political weakness, not least because the media describe any change of mind as a sign of it. But an ability to change one’s mind in the face of changing
circumstances and evidence is a rare strength. Humility also forms the basis for treating everyone with respect – whatever their background or position. As recent reports of bullying and harassment in both the Commons and the Lords have shown, this ability is often missing amongst our politicians. Yet it is one of the pivotal hallmarks of a true leader and of a civilised society. So, I hope that as I ply my trade as the leader of a political group, I act with justice, mercy and humility. I would like to think that they are Liberal Democrat values, but they are also ones which can and are followed by politicians across the parties. They are sadly lacking in Messrs Johnson and Corbyn. But nobody has ever claimed that they were exemplars of leading by example.
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SECTION 2
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
Climate Breakdown is
Every Christian’s Business
W
e know there’s no magic wand that will solve climate breakdown and environmental degradation. It won’t just require the skill of scientists, it will need a wholesale change in attitude, to put the needs of the planet and of future generations above our own. In this, Christians are uniquely placed. Writing on the website of Christian Climate Action, Thalia Carr says that Christians can show people by the way that we live and act that we have hope. Secondly, in an increasingly angry world, we can be people who will listen, and thirdly, we can face the reality of the task ahead, together.
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Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Rachel Lewis is a member of the LDCF Exec. and works as an Administrator for Ampthill Baptist Church in Bedfordshire. The Earth has been given to us to care for, so it’s no surprise to find Christians on the front lines of protests, and many Christian charities and organisations becoming part of the Climate Coalition. Working together, we can and are making a difference. In June 2019, the Climate Coalition arranged a mass lobby of MPs and just days later, the government committed to reduce UK carbon emissions to net zero by 2050. It’s still a pledge and not everyone is convinced it’s enough, so it’s up to us to keep the pressure on until this becomes measurable change. If there’s anything we’ve learned from the People’s Vote Marches over the last 18 months, it’s that marching through the streets of London in ever increasing numbers is not necessarily going to get your message heard. We have to get creative!
In April this year the newspaper front pages carried photos of Phil Kingston. The 83-year-old grandfather, a longtime climate campaigner, had, with other members of Christian Climate Action, scrambled onto the roof of a DLR train at Canary Wharf. There he sat, calmly eating a sandwich until the group voluntarily climbed down and were arrested. For Phil, it was simply the latest in a long line of climate change protests, but for the general public and the media, it was sufficiently out of the ordinary to create that moment of impact. While not all of us can do what Phil does, climate action can and should be every Christian’s business. Intentionally choosing to move away from single-use plastic may not feel like radical campaigning, but millions of people around the world acting on that one thing will make a huge difference.
Away from the street protests, pressure is being created in other areas. Christian Aid are working on the Big Shift, asking the world’s banks to shift away from investing in fossil fuels. They have been successful in getting Lloyds and RBS to pull out of coal investment altogether. Now, their spotlight is turned on HSBC, which is still investing in new coal projects in Bangladesh, Vietnam and Indonesia. ‘A Rocha’ believe that looking after the world is a core part of what it means to follow Jesus. They are focusing their efforts on biodiversity, getting people involved in nature conservation and encouraging churches to care for creation as an integral part of loving their neighbours and following God faithfully. Slowly, but surely, public perception and behaviour is changing, and every Christian can be part of that, whether it’s out on the streets, in our churches, or in our daily lives. 13
SECTION 3
BEARING WITNESS
Bearing Fruit in
Old Age
T
here are more than 11.9 million people aged 65 and over in the UK, with this figure projected to rise by more than 40% in the next 20 years. Of this group, 49% say the television or their pet is their main company, with more than 1 million older people admitting that they always, or often, feel lonely.
Carl Knightly (Director of Faith in Later Life). Faith in Later Life aim to inspire and equip Christians and churches to reach, serve and empower older people in every community, that they may live fulfilled and fruitful lives in older age. It seems that older people are so easily forgotten by Society, written off as they are deemed unable to make a contribution in their later years. But this isn’t true. Psalm 92:13-14 tells us: “…they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green”. Betty, aged 99, is a prime example of an older person flourishing in God’s service and still bearing fruit. Asked by her church to share a bit about her ministry, she said that whilst she couldn’t do much physically anymore, she was someone who prayed. Unbeknown to many in the congregation, she had been praying for her church, and people inside and outside the church, for 70 years. Betty humbly revealed how she regularly sought prayer requests from people by sending emails from her iPad.
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Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
...They will flourish in the courts of our god. they will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green. Psalm 92:13-14
On a mission to hear more stories like Betty’s, Faith in Later Life (www. faithinlaterlife.org) was established in 2017 by a group of Christian charities that have been engaging and sharing the gospel with older people for hundreds of years (London City Mission, The Salvation Army, Keychange, Pilgrims’ Friend Society, and Mission Care), to enable Christians and churches to reach, serve and empower older people in every community. Faith in Later Life is also keen to shine a light on the gifts and wisdom that older Christians have, often built up over a lifetime of following Jesus. If we start to re-examine our assumptions about older people, we can gain so much. At the end of a recent ‘Seniors’ afternoon session’ at a church, it was uplifting to hear a member of the church say how revitalised she felt, having woken that morning questioning her usefulness.
We recently launched a network of ‘church champions’, people in their church who want to share what we do, encourage Seniors’ ministry, or just stay updated with how we are seeking to bring together activity in this area, across churches everywhere. What a great encouragement it was to hear from an 81 year old who wanted to become a church champion because she had a passion for helping “the older people” in her church. We envision a Society where Christians are leading the change, starting by serving and affirming the older members of their congregations, but also empowering them, recognising all their gifts and wisdom, as well as the faith that has guided them throughout their lives. To view the resources, activities directory and all that Faith in Later Life has to offer, go to www.faithinlaterlife.org
It’s been exciting to see Faith in Later Life grow over the last year or so.
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Finger on the Pulse A few practical ways to put our faith into political action:
Recommended ACTIONS #1 Climate change Tearfund has been campaigning on Climate change before it was a populist cause, mainly on how it is impacting more vulnerable countries. It has also been involved with the reducing plastic campaign in the UK. www.tearfund.org The Climate Coalition is the UK’s largest group of people dedicated to action against climate change. They represent 130 organisations including Christian ones. www.theclimatecoalition.org A Rocha is a Christian charity working for the protection and restoration of the natural world. They offer a very practical way of getting involved with the issue of climate change. www.arocha.org.uk #2 Refugees & Immigrants Migrant Voice gives a direct medium for migrants to share their stories and campaigns. www.migrantvoice.org.uk @MigrantVoiceUK Follow & pray for Christine Jardine’s Asylum Seekers (Permission to Work Bill), awaiting its second reading in the House of Commons. https://services.parliament.uk/bills/2017-19/ asylumseekerspermissiontowork.html RESET is a charity involved in Community Sponsorship of Refugees throughout the UK. www.resetuk.org #3 Religious Freedom The FCO has recently commissioned a report into Religious Freedoms. www.gov.uk/government/news/review-intochristian-persecution-catalyst-for-action Follow the work of Open Doors www.opendoorsuk.org and CSW www.csw.org.uk 16
Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Recommended Websites #1 Theos Think Tank A Christian organisation, rigorously research based, attempting to combat the ill-informed nature of commentary on religion, now significant in its influence with politicians, policy makers, journalists and academics. www.theosthinktank.co.uk @theosthinktank #2 Christians in Politics An organisation which works to promote Christian involvement in politics through its engagement with churches, through events such as the Influence Tour, and within Parliament. www.christiansinpolitics.org.uk @CiPolitics #3 Church of England Commissioned a report on our housing crisis which challenges our present understanding of community and the church’s response. www.churchofengland.org tinyurl.com/churchofengland @churchofengland
Recommended readING #1 No One is too Small to Make a Difference, Greta Thunberg This book is a selection of 11 of Thurnberg’s key speeches, all written by her. It was published in June priced at £2.99 by Penguin Books. #2 Those Who Show Up, Andy Flannigan A book seeking to challenge Christians to engage with the world of politics, both at the national and local level. #3 Faith in the Public Square, Rowan Williams In this book Williams argues brilliantly for the relevance of both faith and politics, and the contribution of each to the other.
SECTION 4
THOSE WHO STEP UP
Speaking Truth to
T
he world seems almost irredeemably divided, battle lines have been drawn and a side must be picked. Polarisation and inequality have become the new normal, and we exist in a world of ‘haves and have nots’. That’s why this year’s parliamentary prayer breakfast focused on ‘unity’, and the need for Christians to come together on the side of the poorest and most marginalised. Despite strides made in enabling people to lift themselves out of poverty, the world is not on track to meet the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, designed to bring an end to global poverty by 2030. In fact, the global climate emergency further deepens global inequality. Climate change, largely caused by developed countries, is wreaking havoc across the world, mostly in poor countries which are least responsible for the crisis. Many, such as Mozambique following Cyclones Idai and Kenneth, are forced to declare a state of emergency due to extreme weather and climate impacts. Climate change is now a huge factor constraining efforts to end poverty. At Christian Aid, we know that poverty is a political choice. It is wholly avoidable, the outcome of complacency and fundamentally unjust systems. The Church has a rich history of supporting the world’s poorest, building peace and restoring relationships. At times it has led the way in speaking out against profound injustices, such as the apartheid regime. But too often it has remained silent, abdicating its prophetic calling. It is time for it to renew that calling, to speak truth to power and demand dignity, equality and justice for the world’s poorest and most vulnerable. All are created equal in God’s sight, yet we live in a world where the scandal of poverty, inequality and injustice persists. Who, if not the Church, can we expect to bear witness, and to amplify the voices of the marginalised?
Power
Daisy-Rose Srblin (Senior UK Advocacy Advisor for Christian Aid) articulates Christian Aid’s understanding of how Christians step up & ‘do’ politics. To take just one recent example, the Brumadinho dam disaster in Brazil, highlighted how transnational companies so often prioritise profit over life, with minimal accountability. Through and with our partner organisations in Brazil, Christian Aid, is advocating for greater action on human rights abuses committed by such corporations. In our recent report (tinyurl.com/ christianaidreport) we call on governments and supra-national bodies to support the adoption of the binding UN treaty on Business and Human Rights, to enshrine basic rights into law. This is not a time for complacency, so Christian Aid’s new global strategy (tinyurl.com/ca-globalstrategy) has committed to re-focus our energy on people living in extreme poverty. Across countries around the world we will continue to support our local partner organisations to address the root causes of poverty, build local and collective agency, and speak truth to power. The Church has a particular responsibility. In her recent visit to Christian Aid, the Deputy Secretary General of the UN, Amina Mohammed, challenged faith leaders to be bolder, to be peacemakers and agents of justice. Building on this, Christian Aid calls on Christians in the UK and worldwide to unite in the power of global movements to challenge the values and structures which are so destructive of both creation and humanity. We are all challenged by the emergence of global youth movements, demanding immediate and meaningful action to halt the climate crisis. These, among others, are the spaces in which the Church must engage, renewing its calling to speak prophetically to the institutions and structures which deny fullness of life to the world’s poorest people. 17
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THOSE WHO STEP UP
Perspective from
I
Mainland Europe
was at a church service and the speaker praised God that our hope is not in politics. I agree. However, it is my strong conviction that Christians should be active in all areas of society, including politics.
Nathan Goodearl works as an IT Consultant with financial systems. He and his wife are members of Gods Embassy Amsterdam church. They are also co-founders of Empowering Europe, a ministry that encourages and supports Christians to make an impact in their sphere of influence. My journey into politics started with my church in London helping to organise Christians in Politics in Westminster in 2015. It is here I first heard about the Christian arm of each of the main parties, including LDCF. My key take away was how disagreement can be modelled well. I had recently voted for the Lib Dems for the first time in the 2015 General Election and felt a stirring to start to support LDCF on a monthly basis. After the EU referendum result I just knew I had to do something. I joined the Lib Dems the day after. My wife and I unexpectedly moved to the Netherlands in late 2016. Since then I have been elected on the Lib Dems for Europe executive committee and I am the party’s national coordinator for the Netherlands.
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Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Brexit is viewed with bewilderment on mainland Europe. Their most overwhelming response is deep regret in the break of relationship the UK is pursuing. It is not the financial contribution Britain makes to the EU that is mentioned. As Christians we foster relationships to demonstrate the love of Christ in people’s lives. I believe this crucial aspect is overlooked in the UK and it is a source of pain for many Europeans. The EU is a political institution representing over 500 million people. In these uncertain times relating to Brexit, it is important to continue to demonstrate that there are Britons who want relationship. As Christians we can either watch as events unfold or stand up and be counted. We can make a difference for good. There are godly Christians who voted for Brexit and still believe it is a good thing. While I strongly disagree, I certainly do not want to be disagreeable. We should not be vindictive nor malign people personally. While I am a Liberal Democrat, I am a believer in Jesus Christ first and it is Him we are ultimately representing. Ephesians 4:3 says “Make every effort to keep the
unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace� (NIV). We can make our argument firmly yet peacefully. The church is united under Christ and we should demonstrate this in our words and actions, despite the differences we have with Brexit. We should see people through the eyes of Christ and recognise the value each individual has to offer. We need a Liberal voice of freedom and tolerance but also personal and collective responsibility. My church in Amsterdam is active in the political arena, such as the discussions with the Mayor regarding the red-light district. Politics is a place where things get done and the decisions made there can affect millions of people. The more Christians serve in positions of influence, the greater blessing the body of Christ will be to the nations. 19
SECTION 5
OUr stories of faith in action
How my Christian Faith Led me into Politics
M
y name is Fred. I work for Kirsty Williams, the Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for Brecon & Radnorshire, and, also, as a Communications Officer for our B&R councillors and wonderful constituency party. If you ever fancy a spot of campaigning in gorgeous countryside, please do consider visiting us here in B&R - you would be very welcome. I am also a Christian. I have been fascinated by politics and current affairs since a young age and pursued that interest through studying international politics at university and, now, my professional career. However, it wasn’t until my early twenties that I seriously considered working for a political party and joined the Liberal Democrats. This shift was influenced by a deepening of my Christian faith and a growing sense that God was calling me to lead a life and pursue a career in some form of public service. The former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams (born in Ystradgynlais in B&R) once wrote: “Grace, for the Christian believer, is a transformation that depends in
20
large part on knowing yourself to be seen in a certain way: as significant, as wanted.” We are so unconditionally loved by God that nobody, no matter how small they feel, no matter how difficult their past, is beyond His forgiveness, salvation and grace. My politics is rooted in my belief that all Christians are called to foster communities where no one is insignificant or unwanted. Where every individual deserves the chance to flourish as themselves and to realise the full potential of the person they can be without the oppressions of “poverty, ignorance or conformity”. For me, the best churches are communities like these, and so are the best societies.
Fred Till (LDCF Member) committed to expanding freedoms and opportunities for individuals whilst also supporting successful, sustainable and cohesive communities. It is why we champion vocational and lifelong learning and seek to make schools more inclusive environments. It is why we support devolution and the diffusion of power to the most appropriate levels. This is a secular, Liberal agenda that I can support not despite, but because I am a Christian.
Tragically, many people today do feel insignificant and unwanted, alienated and excluded by our culture, society, economy and politics. Often, they live in communities – neighbourhoods, towns, regions – that seem ignored or neglected with opportunities for personal flourishing few and far between, facing socioeconomic barriers that define and delimit the course of lives.
In Luke 10:27, Jesus instructs us: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind.” I try – and often fail – to live by this teaching every day. My understanding of my faith and my God greatly influences the kind of society and politics I want to promote.
The Liberal Democrats attracted me because, at our core, we are the party most
The views expressed in this piece are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of my employers.
Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Bearing Witness: Young Christians transforming Politics
Y
oung people are increasingly concerned with the state of our world, nation and communities. They are demanding action on social justice, climate change and many other issues that affect our lives. However, often they feel disengaged from politics. Our leaders are not meeting their expectations of integrity, honesty and transparency. As Christians we can show God’s love in politics, serving and leading as Christ has taught us. We can bring Christ to the centre of society. As the Dutch Theologian and Prime Minister Abraham Kuyper said, “There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is sovereign over all, does not cry, Mine!” Politics allows us to give a voice to the voiceless, tackle injustice and be salt and light to our nation. By volunteering at food banks, running local support groups, and even sharing the latest climate news on social media, we are being political. But can we turn this activity into political decision making? Our faith and passions can lead us to engage in politics. We can attend local meetings, start a campaign, or join different political parties, where we can build relationships, influence policy and make decisions that
bring lasting change. Some of us might even be called to stand for election. Our aim at Christians in Politics is to see young Christians with a desire for justice and righteousness serving their communities, engaging with the political debate and building relationships across the political divides. In this light we have setup Young Christians in Politics, which aims to equip and inspire us to engage in the most fruitful and compelling way possible. The project is led by young Christians from across different church traditions and political parties. Our Facebook group provides a forum where we share experiences, opportunities to get involved and prayer requests, as well as supporting each other in our political journeys. Last January, Christians in Politics held the event ‘The Next Step: Getting Involved in Government and Politics After University’, where students had the opportunity to hear the biblical case for positive engagement in government, as well as question and learn from MPs and civil servants. It is fantastic to see the growth of these young leaders as many members have spoken at events, worked in parliament, campaigned in local elections and some have even been elected.
Jack Moore is the Young Christians in Politics Coordinator and LDCF Exec member. He is currently studying Environmental Management and Business at university. 1 Timothy 4:12 says “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” Young Christians are changing politics. They are bringing the passion and enthusiasm that can see the next generation impacting every sphere of society and culture. They are placing the Kingdom before their political tribes. Can we continue to bring forward new politicians who act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with our God? (Micah 6:8).
If you share our vision to see young Christians transform politics, then get involved by emailing ycip@ christiansinpolitics.org.uk, and join our Facebook group by searching ‘Young Christians in Politics’. 21
SECTION 6
CHRISTIANITY & LIBERAL DEMOCRACY IN THE 21st CenTURY
Christianity and Liberal Democracy
in the 21st Century
I
identified as a Christian and a Liberal Democrat around the same time. Whilst I’d grown up in a progressive Christian home, it took until I was 16/17 years old to have asked enough questions, debated with a wide enough pool of people and challenged the principles of Christianity sufficiently to consider getting baptised. Simultaneously I was doing my first year of A Level Politics and discovering that the values advocated for by the Liberal Democrats struck a chord. I joined the party 10th May 2015 and got baptised 18th October the same year. The topic of Christianity and Liberal Democracy in the 21st Century is personal for it is my past, present and future. When I think about the legacy that Christian Liberal Democrats are leaving in the 21st Century, then I long for it to be remarkable, unapologetic and overflowing with dignity. God loves recklessly, with free abandon – by aiming to follow his example then our campaign literature, manifestos and policy should overflow with compassion. Reckless love is perhaps not a behaviour we often see in politics, an arena that is renowned for hypocrisy and greed. But we are called to stand apart, to throw ourselves into our work and in the same breath surrender the outcomes (Rob Bell). This is inherently democratic and whilst our first allegiance is to God, we are also accountable to the electorate when it comes to living out “yet not my will, but yours be done” Luke 22:42. Practically being a Christian and a Liberal Democrat in the 21st Century is to take up your cross and follow, to stand up for the vulnerable, hated and misunderstood in our society with radical recklessness for “what good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” Matthew 16:26.
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Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Amy Fortnam is on the board of directors for Christians in Politics. She stood for election for the first time in May this year, and campaigns for the party both at home (Birmingham) and at University (Bath). Amy is a proud feminist and human rights activist studying Politics and International Relations. This steadfast attitude towards fairness, freedom, openness and non-conformity are intrinsically liberal and inspire us to be loving in a way that makes us be distinct from other political parties in the face of current apathy and hopelessness. As it says in Isaiah 32:8, we are called to be noble, a word that in some biblical translations is replaced with the word liberal - ‘But the noble make noble plans, and by the noble deeds they stand’ (NIV) – “But the liberal deviseth liberal things; and by liberal things he shall stand” (KJV). I love the simplicity and challenge these words provide. I will close this article with an affirmation, it comes from The West Wing, a political drama that if you aren’t familiar with I would highly recommend investing in as a matter of urgency... “When you try to hurl that word liberal at my feet as if it was something dirty, something to run away from, something to be ashamed of, it won’t work senator because I will pick that label up and wear it as a badge of honour” – Santos. May we members of the Liberal Democrat Christian Forum in the 21st Century be noble, reckless and unapologetically liberal!
Join the WHY?
today
Membership will give you: • Priority invitations to our events • Regular magazines and membership newsletters • A platform to contribute to policy debates • Supporting LDCF’s cross-party work with Christians in Politics • Access to up-to-date information on our social media sites
HOW? It’s simple... Visit our website www.ldcf.org and click ‘Join’. LDCF’s mission is to be a Christian voice in the Liberal Democrats, and a voice of Liberal Democracy among the Christian community. We can only do it with our members. Thank you for your support.
SECTION 7
PRAYER AND ACTION
THE ACT of Climate Change
Refugees & Asylum Seekers
Loving God,
Wondrous and holy God, creator of the universe, you make all people in your own image, you live and work in our midst. You bless us with an immense variety of cultures and ways of responding to you. You show us new patterns of living and loving in Jesus. You give us strength by your Holy Spirit.
Thank you for this amazing world you have created. Thank you for its beauty, and for the abundance of life within it. We repent for the way we have abused this earth – The poisoned rivers, the toxic fumes, the polluted seas, The species we have made extinct. Forgive us. We pray for an end to man-made climate change, For the prevention of disastrous temperature rises And for nature to be restored. We pray that governments and corporations Will take swift and decisive action – That everyone will see your creation as a gift to be cherished, Not a resource to be plundered. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen
Prayer courtesy of Tearfund www.tearfund.org
We bless and thank you. Forgive all among us who put boundaries around your presence, love and work; who use diversity to divide people - to demonise some and accord privileged status to others; who seek to dominate or destroy those who are different. Have mercy on us all. Show us all how to live and work with others; to receive diversity as a gift and not a threat; to move beyond tolerance of those who are different to mutual respect and trust. Show us the art of listening with respect to one another. Grant us the help of your Spirit that in humility we may share with others our faith and story. In the name of Christ. Amen
Prayer courtesy of the Methodist Church from ‘Unlocking the Doors’ Inderjit Bhogal www.methodist.org.uk 24
Liberal Democrat Christian Forum / 2019-2020
Religious Freedom
Housing Crisis
As one Church, united under your holy headship, and knowing that we are all one family in Christ;
God of all refuge, Protect all those who are on our streets.
We pray for those who suffer in your name all over the world, our brothers and sisters, who share in that same great gift of salvation through your Son, but who face injustice, oppression and even death because of their faith in you.
God of all shelter, Provide for all who are homeless in our city.
We want to walk with them as they journey through the valley of darkness, and we pray knowing that you are a God of compassion, comfort, and justice; who always hears their prayers, never leaves them and will forever be their fortress and shield, whatever they face. We pray that you will grant them strength, courage, and protection from those who seek to harm them because they follow you; Guidance and wisdom for when their path seems impossible to tread, And hope for a future where they have the freedom to worship you without fear. In the name of Jesus,
God of all rest, Give sleep to all who are cold or who are keeping one eye open in fear of trouble. God of all peace, Calm troubled minds, and protect those who feel hunted. God of all comfort, Strengthen weak knees, and heal broken hearts. God of all power, Transform lives so that they may be free in your freedom. We ask these things in the name of your son Jesus Christ. Amen
Prayer courtesy of the Sanctuary Centre www.thesanctuarycentre.org
Amen
Prayer courtesy of the Evangelical Alliance www.eauk.org 25