News reports and social media feeds can often make it feel like the UK is more divided than ever.
The voices of those who spread hate and seek to separate communities can be loud, but the voices of hope and kindness are louder.
Across Wales, Scotland and England, United Reformed Church (URC) congregations, community groups, and projects show up for people in their neighbourhoods every day. As part of the national “A Million Acts of Hope” week of action, taking place 13-20 May, the URC wants to celebrate these acts of care, kindness and connection.
During this week of action, congregations, community groups and projects are invited to send in photos or videos capturing some of the many acts of hope that they are involved with in their neighbourhoods. These could highlight support for parents, refugees and asylum seekers, young people, older people, warm spaces or any other community activity that brings people together and gives people hope. These examples will help to show that there is more that connects us than divides us and will be used as part of a national campaign alongside a wide range of faith groups and other organisations which will be taking part.
Roo Stewart, Head of Public Issues for the URC, said: “Jesus encouraged us to let our light shine before others and not hide it under a basket. We can do that with humility, but often we don’t manage to do it at all because we’re tired from all the good work we’ve been doing! A Million Acts of Hope is a superb opportunity to fill our media with the superb activities run by churches and other organisations, to counter the hateful rhetoric which often seems to dominate public discourse.”
Taking part doesn’t require major planning. With the permission of those featured, simply take a nice, clear photo or a short video (less than 10 seconds is fine), and send it to [email protected]. Please include the name of your church, group or project, location, and what is being highlighted.
The Revd Jenny Mills, Deputy General Secretary (Faith in Action), added: “We know there are so many amazing things going on in URCs around England, Scotland and Wales. Churches reaching out into local communities, sharing the good news of Jesus with those who live and work near them, witnessing to the love of God through foodbanks and warm spaces, through toddler groups and cafes. So many people being beacons of hope. How great it is to be able to share this widely, counter the negativity and celebrate hope!”
For more information, include free downloadable resources, visit the A Million Acts of Hope digital community hub at millionactsofhope.org/community-hub.