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Global Neighbour
Way 18: Write to a Christian Suffering for their Faith Print E-mail
Written by Phil   
Jun 24, 2007 at 02:35 PM
ImageIn many countries throughout the world, Christians don’t enjoy the freedom to practise their faith. Often they might be imprisoned, or even killed, for following Jesus.

One way to come alongside those in prison, or martyrs’ families, is to write to them. This is a powerful way of sharing God’s love with them and of encouraging and supporting them in their struggles. In addition, it can be an incredible witness to those who are holding them captive as they see the concern and support from fellow Christians around the world.

For details of those suffering for their faith and how to go about writing to them visit
www.opendoorsuk.org
Way 13: Support a Cause Print E-mail
Written by Phil   
May 20, 2007 at 12:51 PM

ImageThere are hundreds of really good causes which are asking for something other than money.

Find a new cause – and learn about it. Increase your own understanding/ awareness, pray, and get involved in their campaigns.

Some suggestions:

Other information:

Last Updated ( May 20, 2007 at 01:14 PM )
Way 10: Buy People Charity Gifts Print E-mail
Written by Phil   
Apr 29, 2007 at 09:57 AM
ImageDon’t know what to buy the person who has everything? Do not fear! You could get them something where the end recipient is actually very grateful for what they receive, almost as if their life depended on it.

With a ‘charity gift’, instead of wasting money on unwanted tat, your money buys a gift on their behalf, which goes to an individual, family or community, normally in the developing world. These gifts can vary from a school desk for a classroom, to fruit trees, livestock or training in farming – the list is seemingly endless.

All gifts, however small, will massively benefit those far less privileged than us. This practical expression of God’s love can also be an excellent witness to others, particularly the person receiving the gift, and who knows where that may lead.

Some useful websites are:

www.oxfamunwrapped.com
www.traidcraftshop.co.uk
www.concernwithlove.org
www.charity-gift.co.uk
www.sendacow.org.uk
Way 05:Use an ethical bank or invest ethically Print E-mail
Written by Phil   
Mar 25, 2007 at 03:24 PM
ImageWe are often unable to see the impact of our investments - it is not immediately obvious whether they are supporting ethically sound causes or not.  One method of ensuring that our investments support ethical causes is to use ethical banks, which express social concern through the ways that they use their financial resources.

In the UK there are at least four organisations that practise in the area of ethical banking:


Last Updated ( Mar 25, 2007 at 03:27 PM )
Way 03: Write to and Lobby Politicians about Fairer Trade Print E-mail
Written by Phil   
Mar 11, 2007 at 09:20 AM

ImageThe Trade Justice Movement is a group of over 80 organisations (including fairtrade
organisations) campaigning for trade justice with the rules weighted to benefit poor people and the environment. They say that the UK Government should:

  • Fight to ensure that governments, particularly in poor countries, can choose the best solutions to end poverty and protect the environment.
  • End export dumping that damages the livelihoods of poor communities around the world.
  • Make laws that stop big business profiting at the expense of people and the environment.

Check out www.tjm.org.uk for more details, and write to your MP if you agree with their point.  To find out who your MP is and send them a message, visit www.theyworkforyou.com

Last Updated ( Mar 11, 2007 at 09:32 AM )