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Movement of Christian Workers
St, Joseph’s, Watford Way,
London, NW4 4TY
Telephone: 0208 2036290,
Fax: 0208 203 62 91
E-mail:
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Registered Charity 1023530
The MCW is a member of
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As the General Election looms large it is an opportune time to consider what we want from the next Government and indeed why we should bother to be involved in the process of democracy at all.
Given the recent scandals surrounding MP’s expenses and the disrepute into which this has brought politics, it is easy to understand the view hich goes something like “they are all self-serving rouges and I want nothing to do with them”. This
of course plays into the hands of cynics who, for whatever reason, would rather we always had a negative or pessimistic view of everything from democracy to human nature in general. We as Christians, particularly in this Easter season, should
have a different view of the world and of human nature. Our faith challenges us to be more open, more optimistic and to build a positive vision of the future.
In this edition there is an article by Paul Edwards discussing some of
the imperfections of our democratic tradition but also emphasising the
importance of being engaged. The bottom line of being involved is
casting our vote. This newsletter
advertises the recent statement by the Bishops’ Conference of England
& Wales entitled ‘Choosing the Common Good’. It too underlines the
responsibility of voting and gives a base from which to make informed
decisions. Amongst other
things this document presents some of the key themes of Catholic Social
Teaching. Not least among these is the absolute priority to place the
poorest amongst us at the centre of our society.
The ethical value of any action or political policy has to be
measured by its contribution to the wellbeing of the most vulnerable
without forgetting everyone else. These unambiguous statements give us
much pause for thought. It is not always comfortable to be faced with
such a demanding vision. In the light of the forthcoming General
election it is important that we are involved in the process and that
we should cast our vote. Our commitment may also mean that our
involvement is deepened so that we can play our part in the building of
a society which has the common good human preoccupations as well as the
political priorities of the new Government.
The elections follow closely International Workers’ Day celebrated
on 1st May. The May Day Message from the World Movement of Christian
Workers refers to Rerum Novarum, the first social teaching document. It
reiterates the same uncompromising message that “no-one is allowed to
violate with impunity this human dignity that God Himself treats with
great respect”. Whilst focused on the importance of our May election,
the first of May opens up a horizon of international solidarity. With
this in mind the MCW is supporting the World Movement’s campaign to
help rebuild the Movement in Haiti which was devastated by the
earthquake in January 2010. An appeal for this purpose will shortly be
circulated to members, upporters and friends so that we can make our
contribution to this vital cause.
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