Yesterday (1 Dec), the ‘Not Ashamed’ campaign - encouraging Christians to stand up for their faith in the public square - led by Christian Concern, took to the streets of London and launched its Christmas focus outside St Paul’s Cathedral at 3pm, amid the protestors.
Christians from across the capital gathered to engage with some of the issues raised by the protesters and prompt examination of the fundamental causes. In this context, there was opportunity to explain how the Christian message is radical, transformative and brings hope and healing to individuals and communities.
This was well illustrated by ex-drug dealer, Rob Joy, who is now an evangelist and who gave a compelling testimony from the steps of the Cathedral, as to how his own life had been turned around from crime to Jesus Christ, in front of an impromptu crowd of protestors, ‘Not Ashamed’ supporters and members of the public.
Later in the evening, Not Ashamed supporters joined hundreds of Christians on the Cathedral steps for an hour of prayer and worship, led by Anglican curate, the Revd Pat Allerton, as part of the 7:14 initiative.
Not Ashamed, which is co-ordinated by Christian Concern, with a growing supporter base of thousands of Christians from across the UK, is calling on Christians to wear symbols of Christianity (such as crosses, broaches, cuff-links, and wrist bands) during Advent – the run-up to Christmas - in order to share their faith at this traditional Christian festival at the heart of our national life.
In recent years Christians have been discriminated against by employers for wearing Christian symbols to work. In a free and democratic country, founded on Christian values, supporters of Christian Concern believe Christians should be able to talk openly about their faith and the benefit that Jesus brings to our society, especially at Christmas and Easter, festivals that our country so enjoys.
Andrea Minichiello Williams, CEO of Christian Concern, said:
“We were very encouraged at the level of interest as we sought to engage with members of the public and the ‘Occupy’ protesters.
“People are seeking answers in these troubled times. The fruits of the secular experiment of the last fifty years are becoming clearer and clearer. We are witnessing, not just economic breakdown, but also the results of long term family and social breakdown. We need, more than ever, a wholesale return to the Christian faith.”
Song
There is now a new Not Ashamed song! Christian band ‘The Heritage’ has produced the song which can be downloaded from their Website and Facebook page.
Links
CBN Report and Video on Not Ashamed