Fair Trade

All this week in the Mothers' Union 'Wave of Prayer' the prayers have centred and concentrated on fair trade issues.  In the circumstances we find ourselves at present, poverty has been highlighted around the world, but also in our own back yard.  More people than ever are relying on food banks to ensure that they and their children are fed.  The government has had to address the problems of people not able to work, on furlough, or who have simply lost their jobs because of this pandemic.  They need help and it falls to all of us to consider what we can do.

Fair Trade is one of the ways that we can help people overseas to get a fair price for the produce and things that they make to sell on the world markets.  Many of our supermarkets now have fair trade products on sale, and when we make our choices we are deciding whether or not to help these farmers and producers to get a living wage for their work.

Other ways we can help is by donating to our local food banks.  Many of our stores have a basket waiting for donations, and often has a list of things needed, whether it be food basics or toiletries.  This is an easy way of helping.  Just add some things to your usual shopping and as you leave the store, put them into the basket.

The other way we can help is to pray.  We pray for governments and big businesses to rethink their ideas about supporting the people who most need our help, and through prayer (such as the MU Wave of Prayer) we can join our voices with people world wide to highlight this issue and bring it to the forefront of our thoughts.  

Prayer and Action.  Prayer is so important, but Jesus urges us to back up our prayers with action.  Be that person who looks for the 'fair trade' area in the supermarket and makes good choices.  Be that person who gets those extra packs of pasta, or tins of vegetables to give to the food bank.  Be that person who talks to others about the issues, maybe people who have not thought about spending in a way that is beneficial to those who the help.

Jesus, Help us to be 'that person.'

Amen.