Christian Aid book considers the 'outrage' of poverty

A new book revealing the most damaging aspects of poverty is being launched at the Greenbelt Festival.

Compiled by Christian Aid, the book ‘Working Together’ looks at the theological implications of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) – the eight targets agreed by the United Nations as essential to the eradication of poverty.

Contributors include Archbishop Bernard Ntahoturi of Burundi, Fran Beckett, leader of Restore Church and the Rev Kathy Galloway, head of Christian Aid Scotland.

Each MDG is analysed by a different author, with the contributors providing a biblical framework against which the MDG can be considered. The commentaries are each accompanied by a contemporary reflection, a series of discussion starters, a prayer and a suggestion for action.

To commemorate the 400th anniversary of the publication of the King James Bible, the book also includes a reflection by Dr Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, on the importance of the Bible in the vernacular to those in poverty.

Editor Canon Geoff Daintree of Christian Aid says the book is an opportunity for Bible discussion groups to focus on subjects of crucial importance that might otherwise appear tangential and remote.

“The UK is one of the most prosperous places on earth. That’s not to deny that poverty exists here, but infant mortality, maternal health, the provision of primary education and the battle against disease are not the challenges they remain in poorer countries,” he said.

“The book reminds Christians that the continued, entrenched existence of such problems is not simply a matter of concern to those affected. Poverty is an outrage against all of us. It robs people of dignity, freedom, hope and power over their own lives.

“Christian Aid has a vision – an end to poverty. The MDGs are part of the answer. How quickly it can be eradicated, however, is at heart a political question. There is enough in the world today to meet everyone’s needs, if greed and indifference don’t stand in the way.”