Each month we will offer a list of action ideas so you can defend, honor, and celebrate Life in your churches and communities on our Take Action page. This month, we are looking at social justice.
Too often, people in the Church cringe hearing the words “social justice”, most likely because they associate the phrase with politics or views that are in conflict with Scripture’s teachings. But the Anglican Church has historically been active in social justice, most famously leading the charge with William Wilberforce in the abolishment of the slave trade. And our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ told His followers to give clothes to the naked and food to the hungry. By following His command, we are being the hands and feet of Christ to people who are in need physically and spiritually.
But is social justice really a pro-life issue? While people typically think of “pro-life” as dealing only with abortion, being pro-life is really about defending and protecting the sacredness of all human life, because we are made in the image of God. And all life really means all life—the unborn child in the womb, the homeless teenager, the abused mother, and the elderly man considering assisted suicide. Being pro-life is not just about abortion and euthanasia; it’s about everyone who is vulnerable and in need in between! However, a word of caution—while there are many people in need of help, we must not sacrifice the needs of the unborn. Please make sure that any organization or endeavor you support, either with your time, finances, or votes, affirms the sacredness of life from conception to natural death.
Everyone has different talents and gifts, and each community has different needs. We aren’t all called to serve Life in the same way. Look around you. Think about the needs of your neighbors and how you can serve the weak, vulnerable, and hurting, those who desperately need to know the love of Christ.
Action ideas:
• Reach out to your local homeless shelter. Organize donations of food, clothing, or other items that they need.
• Learn the signs of sex trafficking and how to identify victims. Host an event at your church to educate parishioners on the signs and what they should do next.
• Contact your local women’s shelter. Organize volunteers at your church to mentor young children living with their mothers and plan fun activities.
Resources:
Written by AFL Administrator Robin Ferguson
