03.02.2015
Global Poverty and Our Response – Dublin and Glendalough Training Event
Dublin and Glendalough is holding a diocesan training day on global poverty and the Church’s response to it. Hosted by Archbishop Michael Jackson, facilitated by Lydia Monds from Bishops’ Appeal (pictured) and funded by Irish Aid, the event will take place on Thursday February 26 from 9.30 am until lunchtime in the Church of Ireland College of Education in Rathmines.
We are called to ‘spend ourselves on behalf of the poor’ (Is 58:10). Our response to those in need is a response to Christ. It is turning away from indifference and inward looking and moving towards an intentional effort to connect with others in self–giving. But sometimes our best intentions can have negative effects. They can reinforce stereotypes of the powerful rich, saving the helpless poor. It can create dependency and actually achieve the opposite of what we set out to do, with increased disempowerment and voicelessness instead of life in all its fullness.
There are ways to engage with poverty issues both locally and globally that minimise hurt and damage in the process. Learning how to respond in this way allows us, and those we partner with, to glorify God together. So the course explores:
· How we understand ourselves and others, particularly those who are culturally different and how this affects our response.
· What is poverty? Our perspective, the poor’s perspective, and the Bible’s teaching.
· How to respond to dire need in a way that is not undermining, but is effective, sustainable and interconnected.
· How to bring this shift in perspective back to our parishes.
The day will get underway with tea, coffee and scones at 9.30 am, followed by the Eucharist celebrated by the Archbishop at 10.00 am ad the workshop at 10.30 am finishing with lunch.
Those planning to attend should let Bishops’ Appeal know by Thursday February 12 by emailing bishopsappeal@ireland.anglican.org.