20 April 2009
Churches urged to take action ahead of European elections
• Election pack highlights BNP threat
On 4 June 2009 every adult in the UK will have the opportunity to
vote in the European Parliament Elections. There will also be some
English County Council elections.
A briefing from the Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist
Church and the United Reformed Church explains the importance of
citizenship and participating in democratic processes.
A new toolkit has also been produced by the three churches to help
equip and affirm local church leaders to take action to counter
far-right and racist politics.
Methodist President Revd Stephen Poxon said, "Voting isn't just a
right - it is a privilege that carries great responsibility. A high
turnout at the ballot box is good for democracy and society and
will make it harder for extremist parties to succeed."
"The European Union directly influences many aspects of our lives,"
added Revd John Marsh, Moderator of the General Assembly of the
United Reformed Church, "The European Parliament is the only EU
body elected by its citizens, and it is a powerful and important
legislature for all 27 member countries."
The briefing and toolkit are available online at www.jointpublicissues.org.uk/jpitpolitics
.
Revd Jonathan Edwards, General Secretary of the Baptist Union of
Great Britain, said, "The toolkit for local church leaders is
designed to help equip ministers and lay people alike with ideas
and information about what they can do to counter racist politics.
The appropriation of Christian language and imagery by the BNP is
deeply offensive - we need churches across Britain to live out a
faith that is open and inclusive, rooted in a commitment to love
our neighbours as we love ourselves."