In this section, we'll post articles by and about people who are seeking to "live the Gospel in a global context" through different forms of community.

Daniel Rutland: Following the "Servants" Model in Southall 

"Compelling evidence of violence, intimidation and outright terror; the studied harassment of the leadership of the MDC, including its Presidential candidate, by the security organs of the Zimbabwean government; the arrest and detention of the Secretary-General of the MDC; the banning of MDC public meetings; and denial of access to the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, all have convinced us that free and fair elections are not possible in the political environment prevalent in Zimbabwe today." (ANC Statement on Zimbabwe, 23 June 2008)

"'You shall love your neighbour as yourself" (Mt.22:39). Electoral processes and outcomes are not an excuse for breaching God's commandments. The sun will still rise on June 28, 2008, well after the elections. May our present conduct help Zimbabwe rise too to assume its rightful place among the nations of the world." (Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops' Conference statement, June 2008)

The deteriorating situation in Zimbabwe over the past few weeks has been the subject of immense concern for many. Aware of violent attacks like those described in this article from the New York Times and this video, how can we respond as Christians?

In recent statements, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches and the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops' Conference have requested our prayers.

Just a quick note on the situation with the DEC Appeal and Burma. The high-profile difficulties regarding aid for Burma following Cyclone Nargis have discouraged many from giving to the DEC appeal. We have heard from one of the DEC agencies, however, that their aid is getting through. Due to the sensitive nature of work in Burma, the agencies are not able to name their partners on the ground, nor can they offer stories, but they say we can be confident that the aid is being effective.

This Month's Action

It's still important to campaign on EPAs. Visit Tearfund's website to read a new report ("Partners under Pressure") which details some of the problems raised by the EU's negotiation strategy . . . or read the summary on Traidcraft's website. Then email your MP to raise questions about the material in the report . . . . .

General Suggestions

1. Pray for justice in international trade. Some suggestions for prayer are on our praying and preaching page . . . or send us your own!

2. Study the Scriptures on trade; you might want to look at the theological papers on the praying and preaching page to guide you.

Some Suggestions for Personal Action

• Commit to regular prayer about the debt issue. Go to our prayer page for suggested materials.
• Investigate the Scriptures surrounding Jubilee -- either on your own or with others. Some suggested guides are in the resources section.
• Join the Jubilee Debt Campaign email list. You'll receive updates and notice of campaigning actions you can take.If there's a local JDC group near you, join it. If not, what about starting one?
• Go to the JDC "Act Now" webpage and take part in an email campaign action.
• Dig deeper! Research some particular aspects of the debt issue. (You can find resources for research on our campaigns and further information pages). The research will make you better able to campaign and lobby.
• Use your information to lobby your MP (or other politicians)
• Write to your local newspaper, reminding people that debt still IS an issue and explaining why. Or . . .
  
• Be dramatic! Debt is an issue that has a dramatic effect on the lives of people in poor countries -- show this with some drama in the streets or in a particular venue. Clear visual statements often get coverage that words alone won't.

Do you have other examples of personal action? Email us at ccowinfo@fish.co.uk and let us know!