Church Army asks parishes to ACT NOW

Church Army’s first parish appeal invites parishes to Act Now for a mission-shaped 2005. The appeal has gone out to around 4,000 parishes supporters - reminding them that Jesus was both homeless and a refugee, as it calls on supporters to engage with the 122 year old society to make a difference in the lives of the lonely, the homeless and those in need.

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The appeal challenges around 3,000 parishes across the UK and Ireland to partner through prayer and financial support the vision of a mission-shaped 2005 - highlighting the need to engage with the 60% of people who have little or no meaningful contact with the church.

Amongst the five case studies highlighted by the appeal is the work of John O’Neill who has teamed up with a newly formed Bikers Church in Ireland to distribute toys to children in Hospital, and the work of Mandy Wright who works amongst the farming community in Devon in “one of the hardest ministries I know.” Paul McDonough’s work with refugees in Great Yarmouth and John Worsfold’s befriending scheme for the elderly are also highlighted as practical examples of sharing faith through words and action - the society’s motto.

Speaking about the appeal, Rosemary Cottrell, Head of Fundraising comments; “This is the first time we have invited parishes to engage with us to catch something of the spirit of what Church Army is doing to reach out to those in need at this advent time. We are looking for a positive engagement from parishes to work with us in delivering the vision for a mission-shaped 2005 and raise the profile of the outstanding work our evangelists do.”

The appeal follows the publication last month of  Church Army's annual review 'Mission-shaped focus' which highlighted that 24% of its income for 2003-04 was from individual or parish donations.

To donate to Church Army’s Advent appeal call 020 8309 9991 or log on to www.churcharmy.org.uk