Bishop urges parishes to support Zimbabwe
19/02/2009
Bishop Martin is urging parishes in the Newcastle diocese to support the Anglican diocese of Zimbabwe by getting behind the Archbishops’ appeal to be launched on Ash Wednesday.
Commending a Day of Prayer for Zimbabwe, the Archbishops say: “We hope this will be part of a communion wide project for Lent, and that every diocese will play its part, responding to the urgent calls for help with medical supplies, food and clean water which come daily from Zimbabwe"
Bishop Martin adds: “The people of Zimbabwe have been suffering the worst humanitarian crisis that country has seen since independence. Many have died from cholera, starvation and HIV. A breakdown of the basic civil infrastructure has slowly been destroying the nation and causing unimaginable suffering.
“The churches are struggling to feed the hungry and heal the sick. They are suffering alongside and with their communities, and they need our support.”
He goes on: “So I ask the churches and parishes of the Newcastle diocese to support the Anglican Diocese of Zimbabwe as they desperately try to witness to God's love and address the overwhelming practical needs.”
Bishop Martin has met Bishop Sebastian Bakare, the Bishop of Harare, and his wife Ruth, on two occasions, and says he has “been deeply moved by the heroism of them and their colleagues in Zimbabwe, still faced with constant brutal harassment and threats of death.”
He adds: “Sebastian is one bishop amongst five in Zimbabwe and one amongst thousands of Anglicans there trying to live out the Christian witness by feeding, clothing, healing, and all too often mourning and burying people in their communities.
“So I bring our Archbishops' appeal to the notice of the people of the Diocese. Will you, during Lent, please find ways to support the Archbishops' appeal? The people of Zimbabwe, including our fellow Anglicans, are suffering. It is crucial for them to know that there are advocates and friends, partners and supporters, in practical help and prayer throughout the world. How can any of us remain unmoved when part of the body of Christ is suffering? Please help and pray this Lent.”
Donations can be made through USPG:
- on line at: www.uspg.org.uk – select the donate tab from the main menu for details. If donating on line, select "Archbishops' Zimbabwe appeal."
- By cheque: makes cheques payable to USPG with the words "Archbishops' Zimbabwe appeal" on the back.
Please send with a short letter explaining that the donation is for this appeal. Send to USPG, Anglicans in World Mission, 200 Great Dover Street, London
SE1 4YB
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