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For those interested in reading more about current social and political issues, click here for the latest Thinking Points from the Centre for Policy Development
Economic Justice
Christians believe that the world is God's gracious gift to humankind and that God’s offer of life is abundance for all. As recipients of this gift we have a responsibility to care for the planet and ensure that all can share in what it provides but human society has failed to provide equitably for all people. The ancient Hebrew prophets understood this failure as an offence to God and called on the people of God to end the exploitation of the poor and vulnerable. In Jesus, God’s bias for the poor found its fullest expression. Jesus came to bring good news to the poor and freedom for the oppressed (Luke 4:16-19) and he spoke of God’s kingdom to come in which the human order of life would be reversed: the poor will be rich, the hungry fed, the sorrowful will be filled with joy and the powerful will be the least. Christians are called to reflect this coming reign of God, to work for justice and serve those most in need.
The Uniting Church believes that people are entitled to a decent life, secure from poverty. This includes access to appropriate food, clothing, housing, health care, meaningful work in a safe environment and with decent wages, quality education and the opportunity to participate in society as members of harmonious communities. It also includes opportunities for rest and recreation. When all these basic needs are fulfilled, people flourish.
The Uniting Church advocates for just economic, social and employment policies which fulfil Australia’s international human rights obligations and serve, first and foremost the needs of those most vulnerable.
Key Assembly Documents
An Economy of Life: Re-imagining human progress for a flourishing world
Twelfth Assembly, 2009
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The Uniting Church as Employer Principles Eleventh Assembly Standing Committee, 2008 |
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Integrity and Justice in Employment Relationships Eleventh Assembly, 2006 |
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Unethical Marketing of Breast-milk substitutes Assembly Standing Committee, 2004 |
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A Call for Justice Concerning Employment Seventh Assembly, 1994 |
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Trade Unions, Professional Associations and Employer Organisations Sixth Assembly, 1991 |
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Investment Policy Third Assembly, 1982 |
Prayer resources for Sorry Day and the Week of Prayer for Reconciliation (26 May - 3 June) from the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ecumenical Commission available here on the NATSIEC website
From the World Council of Churches - 'WCC calls on churches to "renew efforts" for a fair climate deal'
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From the World Council of Churches - multimedia study series on gender violence launched for Lent: The study resources offer a weekly film focusing on the lives of women in various parts of the world, including India, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uzbekistan and South Africa. Each film is accompanied by a Bible study, a fact sheet, discussion starters and worship resources.
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From JustAct in VicTas Synod: JustEndChristianPersecution - take action to assist Dr Alexis Montes, a lay leader in the health ministry of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) and his health worker colleagues.
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Position Vacant: Solidarity and Justice Officer, UCA South Australia (half-time position). The Solidarity and Justice Officer will resource the Church through education, advocacy and networking across a wide range of justice issues and commitments addressed by the Church.
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UnitingCare Australia Opposes Involuntary Income Management (25 Nov 2009): Uniting Care Australia National Director Lin Hatfield Dodds has called today for the Australian Government to focus on delivering effective support for disadvantaged and vulnerable families.
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