The Constituency Action Network (CAN) — launched by the Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church through the Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT) — resources local churches to building meaningful relationships with their MP and works with them to speak and act for peace and justice. The aim is to have at least one church signed up in every Westminster constituency across England, Scotland and Wales.
In a new film, the network is introduced through the biblical story of the Good Samaritan, drawing on Martin Luther King Jr’s conviction that while we are called to play the good Samaritan on life’s roadside, we must work to transform the whole Jericho Road so that people are not repeatedly mistreated and marginalised along life’s journey.
The Revd Dr Alex Clare-Young, JPIT’s Campaigns and Church Engagement Officer, said: “This network has the power to campaign for justice and peace both locally and nationally. We are often told that Church should not be political, but Jesus tells a different story, one that promotes radical equality, advocating for the marginalised and presenting a Kingdom of God that challenges the unjust power structures within society. By connecting with MPs, churches can be a vital part of God’s work for a peaceful and just world.
“Increasing polarisation and the scapegoating of particular groups for all of society’s ills has eroded our communities. Some people have lost hope that their MP will address the things that matter to them. They may not have the confidence to contact their local MP by letter or email, let alone visit them during a weekly, surgery appointments about their concerns.
“Local churches and other faith groups are uniquely placed to listen to and support neighbourhoods that are hurting and people facing real challenges. Churches are experts in social action and local issues, running food banks, warm spaces and much more. Working together with their wider communities, often-ignored voices can be amplified. But the difference between noise and influence is relationship.
“That is why the Constituency Action Network matters. It gives MPs opportunities to truly understand the people and places they serve, helping them to connect local issues with national policymaking.”
Churches in the network commit to building and sustaining positive and purposeful relationships with their local MP, praying for them regularly, and listening carefully within their congregations and communities. In doing so, churches can speak up on a range of local and national concerns that matter to their community.
And they will not do this alone.
JPIT supports CAN churches with resources, training and guidance on a range of public issues alongside encouragement to participate in coordinated action for positive change. Churches are also invited to online gatherings offering opportunities to learn from one another and explore what can be achieved together.
Alex added: “We urge churches to watch our video, begin a discussion about how CAN could impact them and their community, and join us in our aim of achieving real and lasting change for our communities. Together, we can make a positive difference and work towards a kinder, more truthful politics, informed by listening and strengthened by trust. This has been missing in government and is vitally and urgently needed. Join us.”
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Watch the short film about the new Constituency Action Network.