A time for church mobilisation in the community

Revd Stuart Nixon, Birchwood Minister

The cost-of-living crisis is a time of uncertainty, and yet it is often in these times that the Church becomes mobilised and creative. It would be easy as individuals and churches to say, “there’s very little we can do to change this”. But local churches can make a difference. I have been promoting something called WarmSpace, also known as Warm Hubs or Warm Welcome. These are places that are open to the local community to provide a regular, warm, safe and holy environment over the winter months as a response to the crisis. It could mean opening your church hall or small room for a couple of hours to provide warmth, a chat, possibly a simple meal, refreshments, prayer and activities. It also allows for engagement with a variety of people. If you would like to give this a try, visit www.warmwelcome.uk

This work shows how the church cares about its community by meeting practical and spiritual needs in a time of crisis, tackling loneliness, and an opportunity for Christians to serve and point people to Jesus thus developing their discipleship.

It must be acknowledged that, like foodbanks, it is something we can provide, but also it is something we shouldn’t need to. We have a role, as church, not only to support those in need currently but also to challenge the reasons and injustice behind those needs. For more information see https://jpit.uk/economy/the-cost-of-living-crisis.

Merciful God,

Give us compassion for the lost and lonely,

And help us to provide warmth for those fearful of the rising costs.

Fire us to challenge the injustice that allows many to go without

whilst others have more than they need,

that we might see your Kingdom come and your will done here and now.

In Jesus name we ask,

Amen.