Forty years after the Church of England’s landmark Faith in the City report called attention to the moral duty to tackle poverty, inequality and urban deprivation, Churches Together in the Merseyside Region, in partnership with Together Liverpool, has launched a new manifesto renewing the call for justice, compassion and unity in our time. The Manifesto for Hope also serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through a common endeavour to overcome these stark realities and build a more compassionate, resilient and prosperous society.
Rooted in the same spirit that inspired the 1985 Faith in the City report, the manifesto draws on a range of voices from across the Liverpool City Region and is endorsed by church leaders, Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, and Cllr. Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council. It recognises the progress made, while confronting the enduring social and economic divides that continue to shape communities today.
The Manifesto sets out a series of key priorities for civic and church leaders to address with integrity and transparency. These include:
- a commitment to equality
- the building of cohesive and compassionate communities
- tackling loneliness
- encouraging fair employment practices
- demonstrating the courage to act with honesty and openness
Rev Phil Jump, Chair of Churches Together and Regional Minister for the North West Baptist Association, said: “No one can doubt that our city region and our nations face significant challenges at the present time. It is easy in such circumstances to be overcome by despair and be swept along by narratives of blame. We hope this manifesto will inspire everyone across our city region, irrespective of their faith background, to recognise what can be accomplished when communities work together and to see those things that are wrong in society as opportunities to strive for better.”
Rt Rev Ruth Worsley, Interim Bishop of Liverpool, said: “Together, we can build a society where everyone is valued and no one is left behind. Supporting those in need is not merely an act of kindness, but is central to our shared humanity. This manifesto stands as a reminder of what can be achieved when we unite around a common goal, echoing Jesus’ words: ‘Whatever you did for one of the least of these you did for me… whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me’ (Matt 25:40,45).”
Watch the Churches Together in the Merseyside Region prayer for the city:
Download the Manifesto for Hope.
Learn more about Churches Together in the Merseyside Region.