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Oldswinford vicar helps launch an appeal in support of families living through conflicts

International development charity Christian Aid has begun fundraising for its Christmas Appeal and Rev John Flitcroft, from St Mary’s Church, is taking part by helping to raise awareness through a social media moment.

By contributor Juliet Lunam
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This Christmas, the focus of Christian Aid's appeal is on the plight of the millions forced to flee their homes because of conflict, and people from the Democratic Republic of Congo, are sharing their stories to raise awareness.

Families who had to escape the violence between multiple armed groups and government forces, now live in overcrowded, unsanitary, makeshift conditions with limited access to food, clean water and electricity.

Rev John is lending a hand with the organisation’s social media campaign. He will be featured in a post aimed at getting people to imagine what it much be like to have to leave your home in a time of war, and what you might take with you.

He said: “If I had to flee home with just one item, I think I’d take my binoculars because I get so much joy from seeing wild things up close.

Rev John Flitcroft is helping Christian Aid with its Christmas appeal to raise money for families living in war zones.
Rev John Flitcroft is helping Christian Aid with its Christmas appeal to raise money for families living in war zones.

“I’m praying this appeal is successful; Christian Aid stands in the long line of prophets. They tell us that God wants those who may be relatively safe and secure to offer compassion and help to refugees, asylum seekers; anyone fleeing war, poverty and persecution. That's why the appeals Christian Aid organises are so important - they remind us to respond to all suffering and need with God's love.”

Christian Aid has worked with local organisations in the DRC since the 1970s.

Supporters like Rev John will be raising funds and awareness for the work of Christian Aid’s partners who provide cash assistance so people can buy essential supplies such as food, medicine or bedding; give people better access to clean water; and provide support for survivors of rape and gender-based violence.

Donations will help people with immediate needs – £3 could buy the mosquito net that protects a child from contracting malaria for example. The funding also supports people in the long term to develop sustainable incomes which increase their resilience to the many challenges they face.

To find out more about Christian Aid, please visit christianaid.org.uk.