Poverty Action Sunday 2005

As a nation we are more prosperous than ever before. Yet in spite of the Government’s efforts, over 3 million children are still living in poor households, 3 million households regularly borrow money at interest rates of 180% apr and above, and the gap between rich and poor continues to grow.

We are pleased to announce that from 2005, Unemployment Sunday will become Poverty Action Sunday. Following consultations with churches and other partners, it has been decided to shift the focus from unemployment to poverty action. Even as the economy moves towards ‘full employment’, unemployment and low pay continue to be a serious concern for many, yet now the largest single group of people experiencing poverty are in work. With a broader focus on ‘poverty action’ we hope to attract more churches and groups across the country to order resources and use the opportunity to reflect on what they might do to help tackle the root causes of poverty and economic injustice in the UK.

Timed to coincide with the publication of a major report of the same title by the Churches Together in Britain and Ireland at the end of February, we hope Poverty Action Sunday will provide an opportunity for Churches to reflect on one of the most pressing questions which faces us as a society: What is the purpose of our prosperity, and how can we find ways to share it more justly?

Book Sunday 6 February in your diary now. Make it an opportunity for your church to pray, act and give as part of CAP’s new Poverty Action Sunday.

Further copies of the Poverty Action Sunday flyer (free) Worship resources: Booklet of prayers, reflections & all age worship ideas (£1 each) Living in Lent: Live on the Minimum Wage for the period of Lent (free) Prayer and Action postcards (up to 5 free, 10 for £2) Collection envelopes (free) Prosperity with a Purpose, CTBI publication £2.50 (available February) Information on how to get involved with Church Action on Poverty (free)

To download the resources click on the links below.