Evangelical Alliance urges churches to confront money issues

The Evangelical Alliance is to host a finance-focused seminar at this year’s Pentecost Festival in a bid to get churches talking more openly about money and debt.

“Churches are failing their members and communities by avoiding openly talking about money and debt,” the EA said.

The ‘Money; Let’s Talk’ seminar is part of this year’s Pentecost Festival, a London-wide outreach from 26 to 31 May to show the best of the church to the capital.

The seminar will be joined by Credit Action Chris Tapp and National Stewardship and Resources Officer for the Church of England, John Preston.

They will lead conversations in the role of churches in fighting insecurity, unemployment and debt, and consider how Christians respond to the economic crisis.

Mr Tapp encouraged church leaders to get to grips with the issues by taking part in the seminar.

“Money is generally seen as a very private subject and this all too often leads to reluctance on the part of churches in discussing financial matters,” he said.

“However it is an absolutely crucial issue for Christians to tackle especially today when so many in our churches and communities are struggling desperately with money and debt issues.

“Unfortunately pastors and church leaders may feel ill equipped to address the topic and that’s why we want to give practical advice and encouragement to people who can then teach and support others in the area of money management.

“'Money; Let’s Talk’ is a fabulous opportunity to do this.”

Money; Let’s Talk will take place at Church.co.uk on Saturday 30 May from 2-5pm.


On the web: www.pentecostfestival.co.uk/#