For every negative story told about the Christian Church somewhere in the public square there are literally thousands of positive stories. It is necessary that we speak up to tell a few more of these stories, No one else is going to do this for us. The amazing work local churches are doing deserves more credit in the public square. It is the nervousness of religion, and a cultural ‘feeling’ that Christianity must be criticised more than complimented, that hinders due praise. That praise is important, because it strengthens the work.
Our observations of culture and the trends within it have led us to the conclusion that an effort like this is needed. (The gap could be filled by a range of alternative options – or by this effort. Seeing the gap filled – no matter the means, is the primary goal).
It is also true that the hope and help that churches offer need to go together. Some focus only on the message of hope – while considerably disconnected from the very real needs of their own communities. How does the message of love make sense if we are not showing love? How useful will the message of love feel to a hungry man – if we haven’t given him the sandwich that is in our hands?
I also believe Christian churches would be capable of a lot more in this nation were we more intelligently connected – with outcomes in mind. The ‘economies of scale’ possible in many churches have changed. Needs are greater – and many churches are smaller, especially in rural areas. This effort is therefore also about encouraging Christian churches to look afresh at who they are together as ‘the Church’ – and then at the needs of our cities and towns to consider what might be possible with the wider scope of their local resources in view. When we stand as one, we are far from insignificant, and capable of much.
An irony here is that we are already the largest non-Governmental contributors to the charity sector in this nation – while few amongst the public would know the scope of. It is our failure to collaborate (or to work out how to collaborate) that has left us in this position. This is not necessary, and to our detriment – as also to that of those we might otherwise help and bless.
Change is possible. Our nations churches are already amazing in this nation – with so many initiatives undertaken to help others. The simple idea here is that this work could be enhanced were we to get our heads together a bit more – to represent and engage more as one.
