Our 2021 Commitment for Life Service on Sunday 31 October 2021 was led by our Eco Group.

Commitment for Life is the world development programme of the United Reformed Church. It encourages churches to take action, pray and give support for people across the world. It works in partnership with Christian Aid and Global Justice Now, raising over half a million pounds a year from contributing churches.

St Paul’s became involved with Commitment for Life more than 20 years ago.  Over that time we have learnt about the problems in partner countries: Bangladesh, Central America (Honduras, Guatemala. Nicaragua and El Salvador), Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory and Zimbabwe.  Our annual collection for Commitment for Life has probably raised over £20,000 through the years.  This goes to support the work of Christian Aid Partners in these countries and supports the campaigning work of Global Justice Now,

As a Fairtrade Church since the late 1990s, we have been able to give a practical response to trade issues that affect our partner countries. We have also taken on board the effects of climate change in these vulnerable places and play our part in promoting a careful use of resources.

In October 2017 we celebrated 25 years of Commitment for Life with a special service here at St Paul’s.

For more information about Commitment for Life, see the URC web site.

A prayer for Commitment for Life

Give us, God, a vision of our world, as your love would make it. A world where the weak are protected, and none go hungry or poor. A world where the benefits of civilised life are shared, and everyone can enjoy them. A world where different nations, races and colours live with tolerance and mutual respect.

Amen