Around 80 people from diverse Christian churches and organisations in Northern Ireland gathered in Portadown to celebrate the launch of the Coalition of Christian Voices Against Poverty.
The launch featured a variety of speakers, including Lynda Gould from NICVA's Faith Engagement Programme and the Community Faith Forum, and Rev. Brian Anderson, Mission Superintendent at East Belfast Mission. Special guests from the Cliff Edge Coalition included, Dr. Ciara Fitzpatrick and Sarah Corrigan, who provided insights into the "State of the Nation" and the Cliff Edge Coalition's campaign. Topics ranged from considering if charity can be damaging if left unexamined, and the role of the Church in promoting societal common good.
Over the past 18 months, leaders from over 30 organisations have collaborated on various fronts, engaged with political representatives and supported events like the Cliff Edge Coalition Stormont Event. Despite commendable efforts by churches and charities in tackling poverty, the Coalition of Christian Voices is deeply concerned about the impact of poverty for individuals, families and local communities.
The coalition is open to all Christians working or volunteering in poverty-alleviating roles. "We invite all Christians across Northern Ireland who are actively engaged in addressing the effects of poverty to join us in building a unified Christian voice against poverty," said a spokesperson on behalf of the Coalition of Christian Voices Against Poverty in NI.
For further information on joining the Coalition, please contact: Danielle McElhinney, Public Policy Officer, Evangelical Alliance and member of the Coalition of Christian Voices Against Poverty in NI (Tel. 07833373469 or by email. [email protected])
