CHURCHES TO LAY DIFFERENCES ASIDE FOR 2008 INITIATIVE
HUNDREDS of churches in the UK are laying their differences to one side as part of a massive initiative to help their communities next year.
Churches, Christian groups and other organisations, such as the police and local councils, are planning to work together in community projects as part of a major campaign, called Hope08.
Its aim is to see hundreds of volunteers embark on initiatives such as park clean-ups and charity events.
The campaign has won backing from churches across all denominations.
Andy Hawthorne, one of the leaders of Hope08, said, ‘I honestly believe 'Hope' in 2008 is an opportunity, perhaps like we've never had before, for every denomination, Christian organisation, conference and movement to play to their strengths, and together make a huge impact on this nation.’
Events already planned include clean-ups in parks and public spaces, arts and culture festivals, fun runs and praise parties.
In Glasgow, people from churches around the city will be handing out bottles of water to New Year’s Eve revellers with a message of ‘Hope’ before a service at the cathedral in Castle Street at 11pm.
A spokesman for Hope08 said, ‘There are lots of projects already planned and more will be set up as the year goes on. There are lots of summer activities launched, and the main aim will be to highlight the Christian message through these projects.
‘We want to demonstrate faith in action and show that our faith is one of love and care for the people in our communities.’
New Year’s Eve events include a prayer walk in Manchester, starting at the cathedral at 11pm, an ‘all-nighter’ from 8pm-2.30am at Leicester Cathedral and a launch event at the Winding Wheel conference centre in Chesterfield from 11pm.
