Poverty and inequality
God is already at work through more than a thousand churches, chaplaincies and schools in this diocese and also through each of us as individual disciples. Much is already being done to respond to the injustices of poverty and inequality. As part of our common vision for a more Christ-like Church, we seek to address specific questions of poverty and inequality. The COVID-19 pandemic and the likely recession that will follow will only exacerbate existing inequalities. Addressing Poverty and Inequality: Supporting churches to love and serve their communities during COVID-19 and beyond, published by the Diocese of Oxford, tells the story of poverty and inequality in a wide range of community and church contexts across the Thames Valley region. How to...In this series, churches give practical advice on recognising and responding to poverty and inequality in your local area. Just a few years ago, a group from Wendover noticed an unmet need in their area. The Monday Club Cafe is faith in action - laughter, support and community for people with dementia and their carers. Feel inspired. Start small. Enjoy the journey.
The Diocese of Oxford has always prioritised issues of poverty and inequality through its social justice work. A Poverty and Inequality Steering Group, formed in October 2020, seeks to address specific questions of poverty and inequality as part of our common vision for a more Christ-like Church. This group includes external representation from the Children's Society, Christians Against Poverty and Citizens Advice. We seek to support churches and church members to live out their calling to address poverty and inequality. Be inspired to take action or discover resources to support your work with different social issues: PovertyChurches across the diocese are seeking to alleviate poverty, including income poverty, food poverty, and digital poverty. Homelessness & housingHomelessness and housing is particularly an issue across the diocese due to the high cost of and demand for housing in the area. Refugees & asylumBe inspired to take action or find resources to support your church's work to support survivors of human trafficking, refugees, and asylum seekers. Isolation & mental healthThe church as a community is excellently placed to support people struggling with loneliness and mental ill-health. Community organisingEnabling more churches across the diocese to alleviate the root causes of poverty and inequality through our partnership with Citizens UK. Modern slaveryHow the diocese are highlighting the issue of modern slavery and where to find out more If you can't find what you're looking for or would like to talk to someone about addressing poverty and inequality in your church, please contact the Social Justice Adviser, Hannah Ling. What can you do?
As Christians we follow a God of justice. Jesus wasn't quiet or inactive when it came to poverty and inequality, and we shouldn't be either. As you seek to make this world a better place, you put your love in to action and usher in His kingdom. It's easy to become overwhelmed or unsure how to act to alleviate poverty and inequality, so here's three steps on how to start...
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