let me take you by the hand and lead you through the streets of London

I had very black snot today. Apparently thats an outcome of Londons underground tubular network and I have been spending a lot of time on that lately. I have been putting together a few Social Justice Tours of London for a group of Salvation Army officers over here in the UK for a while. It has been challenging, as it is really not an area that has been too comprehesively explored, but really exciting seeing the weave of social reform and action shine through this ancient city's history.

We will cover the obvious- Londons role in the slave trade- and the obscure- Maggie Blakes Cause and the impact of one passionate community activist bringing about access for the poverty stricken locals to the Thames. Some sites such as the Magna Carta and the founding of democracy are proper vintage ...others are modern social justice initiatives - visiting the Icount crew and hearing about their fight against climate change.

It has endeared London more to me, I have been captured by events and people that I imagine at the time were quite insignificant but have been an integral part of this citys fabric of change. Ah. To dwell on real places and real people that have bought about justice and freedom is a beautiful and inspiring thing!!! (I recommend it, if you have some spare time!!)

a lot of people.

On Wednesday 17th october 38.7 million people across 110 countries stood up against poverty and for the Millenium Development Goals as part of the S t a n d U p movement.
Fantastic.
(See more here.)

Black Gold

Stand up

empty boots

Bo Brekke, leader of the Salvation Army, was killed last week. His premature death will be felt intensely by his family and friends, and also from the global community. Brekke had a passion for those on the margins and this was reflected massively in his work from his establishing of the Salvation Army Fair Trade gift chain, Sally Ann, to his writing. If you have the time give his article, We are the Poor, a read.

Joe Mitty was the man who set up the first Oxfam Charity shop and who has played a critical role in fighting global poverty ever since has passed away at 88. Although his death was not such a shock, he too will leave holes in the fabric of the fight for justice. A few years ago Mitty was describing his inexperience for such a role but went on to say "But I had two words - Rage, and Passion. Rage because of the inequality and injustice in the world, and a Passion to do something about it.”

I admire and honour these two guys. I am praying for those who are mourning and also that people will stand up with their passion and rage and fill these two pairs of now empty boots.

Just a heads up...

that the international day for the eradication of poverty is on the 17th October. Get your White Band ready and your people mobilised to Stand Up and Speak out against poverty!

All in London are welcome to come along to the Rink, Oxford St, at 7pm for a reflection on global poverty and prayer for our global neighbours.