Peter Kettle, the volunteer coordinator of the Diocese's Poverty and Hope Appeal, wants to thank churches for their donations so far and to remind them that it is still possible to support the Appeal this Christmas and into next year.
I would like to say a big “Thank You” to every parish and individual who has supported the 2024-25 Appeal, not just through donations, but also through encouragement and advice.
In terms of funds raised so far, we are currently just under half-way to reaching our target of £21,000, with a strong increase in donations over recent weeks as Christmas approaches.
As we celebrate the coming of God’s light into the darkness, it is particularly important to keep supporting two key projects working for peace and reconciliation in places where people are threatened by war and violence.
The Wi’am Conflict Resolution Centre and other community groups in the Bethlehem area to which we are connected via Amos Trust should perhaps be a focal point for our prayers. Christian Aid’s big ‘Violence to Peace’ initiative in Latin America and the Caribbean also provides lessons in neighbourly love.
In the new year, a major review of how the Appeal operates will take place, guided by the feedback received through the on-line interactive interviews carried out in October-November. I am most grateful to everyone who took part, but can’t thank people personally, as all the survey data is anonymised.
Chats with a polite and enthusiastic AI interviewer provided 266 answers mainly related to what motivates donors and possible improvements to the operation of the Appeal.
On motivation to support the Appeal, the three big things that came through are trust in and loyalty to the Diocese, Tradition (especially with respect to Harvest giving) and responding to Christian teaching about sharing God's gifts.
On possible improvements, the main things suggested that we might add or improve could be new printed material encouraging direct donations by members of the congregation or wider community.
Churches also value in-person contacts, and may not be aware that I would be happy to visit and talk about the activities around the world supported by the Appeal.
I would love to tour parishes in the Diocese in 2025! If you would be interested in arranging a visit, pllease contact me on: povertyandhope@gmail.com.
Thank you.
Peter Kettle
Poverty and Hope Appeal Coordinator.