Rev Carl Chambers is the vicar at St Michael and all Angels Church in Wilmington, Kent, in the south-east of England. He shared how his church partners with CSW through praying, campaigning and giving.
How did you come to hear about CSW?
I was contacted by a member of CSW’s advocacy team a few years ago. I hadn’t heard of CSW before, but immediately felt it was a good thing to connect with them.
Are there any individuals or countries that particularly resonate with you or your church?
Yes, certainly. Personally, I’ve felt a connection with Cuba before I was a Christian, and then with Christian pastors since 1994. As a church, we support a church in Chemba, Kondoa, which is a heavily Muslim part of Tanzania. It is a diocese in the Anglican Church.
Why is it important for your church to pray and help people who are suffering for their beliefs?
We believe that every human being has dignity before God, because we are made in his image. Whilst God calls us to turn from idols to serve the true and living God, it is also important that people have freedom to explore their beliefs without compulsion or pressure. Paul urges prayer for all in authority that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness (1 Timothy 2:1-2). There is something about peace, rather than hostility or oppression, which therefore enables people to come to know God.
‘I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.’ (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
How would you encourage other churches to engage with pursuing religious freedom for all?
Follow the advice CSW give! We try to have someone from CSW visit us once a year in a service, and always given them ten minutes to speak to the whole church (including children). Then they have much longer after the service – it could be 40-60 minutes. Last time someone came, it was great to see a number of people sign the petition.
From time to time, we have someone from CSW join our monthly prayer meeting on Zoom, which keeps things up to date. And because our church only has six mission partners, we make sure we pray for one each week. So we regularly pray for CSW in the main services, too.
Thank you, CSW, for your ministry. We’re right behind you and alongside you! Equip your church
Equip your church
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