Amazing Grace

Friday 23 March saw the UK release of the film Amazing Grace. A movie that traces the attempt of Christian visionary and politician William Wilberforce and a group known as the Clapham sect to bring an end to the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The film has been released to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Abolition of slavery across the British Empire, and to all accounts has opened to some great reviews.

The issue is important for different reasons. Firstly, we all need to be aware of our history and how it has shaped and fashioned life and culture. Secondly, we need to consider how a relatively small group of people can bring about change for the positive. Thirdly, we need examples from which we draw inspiration in our generation to stand on the side of the poor and marginalised in society. And finally, we need to allow it to fuel our passion to not just leave things to others but to get up and make a difference ourselves.

At Charis this past Sunday, we joined in with Amazing Grace Sunday, and after a time of information and reflection sang John Newton’s hymn. His is a truly amazing story of turning from his slave master roots, finding faith in Christ and eventually joining the Church as a clergyman. It was his experience of conversion from that dark past which inspired him to write, what is the most well known hymn of all time.

Sadly, today the issue of contemporary slavery continues. It is estimated that there are between 12 and 27 million modern day slaves in the world. Most of them without a voice: no-one to stand up and defend them. But this is where we can make a difference. Each one of us has the opportunity to get involved, to show we do care.

If you want to take some these issues further then there are some great sites you can check out. I’ve listed them here for you information and interest.

www.free-at-last.org – this site provides information about the salve trade and highlights an exhibition being held in London which will also tour the country.

www.amazinggracesunday.com – a interesting site with some good clips and mini documentaries.

www.stopthetraffik.org – a campaigning site who are working in many different ways to bring justice to the poor and oppressed in the world.

www.amazinggracemovie.com – the official website for the movie.

If you feel passionate about this issue and feel we should be doing more then do let me know, I’d be interested in talking to you about it.