Blears, church leaders to explore common response to recession

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears will praise church leaders as they come together to respond practically to the challenges of the recession.

Hazel Blears will be the keynote speaker at the Life Beyond Debt event on Thursday, run by the Evangelical Alliance.

Speaking ahead of the conference, she said: "The Government is working hard to get real help to people in these tough times: advice about debt, new options for people struggling to pay their mortgage, better support for retraining.

“But the role of charities and community groups is vital too. They bring comfort and reassurance to many through practical advice, advocacy and support for people when they need it most. Faith-based groups and charities have an unwavering dedication to the people they serve, and I'm committed to making sure that government listens and works with them in the months to come."

The conference will also feature experts from churches and Christian organisations talking about the role the church has to play in money education and dealing with debt. They will also speak about examples of effective church action, to highlight resources available to other Christians who want to serve people in need.

Representatives of several denominations and leaders of key Christian debt and money agencies will sign a public statement, which will be issued at the conference. In it they will commit to encourage and challenge the church in the community to contribute generously towards building a just society which cares for the poor.

Dr Don Horrocks, Head of Public Affairs at the Evangelical Alliance, said: “This conference brings together Christian leaders who specialise in dealing with debt at a practical level, to reinforce our shared commitment to caring for our neighbours.

“We want to unite in encouraging and resourcing churches to reach out to their communities during a time of national and social economic crisis and to help make a real difference to peoples' lives.”

The Evangelical Alliance will also launch a new website on Thursday to provide advice and resources for churches and Christians who are keen to help people in their communities struggling with debt.



On the web: www.lifebeyonddebt.org