Lenten observances that promote justice

Friday, February 08, 2008

Latest Press Release: New Post-Election Poll Demonstrates Political Diversity of Evangelical Christians
Press Conference Audio here.

As the Christian season of Lent begins, many believers make sacrifices or incorporate new spiritual disciplines in order to honor and commemorate Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness before he entered Jerusalem. Often these observances take the form of fasting or dietary restrictions, or daily devotions and spiritual reflection. A number of diverse Christian organizations are observing the season by providing opportunities to use these 40 days to take action on pressing moral issues, such as poverty, war, human rights and global warming.

The Anglican Church's Tear Fund is calling a "Carbon Fast:"

Actions include:

* snubbing plastic bags
* giving the dishwasher a day off
* insulating the hot water tank
* checking the house for drafts with a ribbon and buying draught excluders

Participants are asked to begin the Carbon Fast by removing one light bulb from a prominent place in the home and live without it for 40 days - as a constant visual reminder during Lent of the need to cut energy.

On the final day of the Carbon Fast, people are encouraged to replace the missing bulb with an energy-saving bulb.

Catholic Charities USA has a "40 Days 40 Ways" campaign against poverty, which provides both practical and spiritual ways to engage the issue. Actions range from "use Scripture to deepen your understanding of poverty" to "volunteer at a local job readiness program." If you're looking for creative ways to get involved, this is a great resource.

And Catholics for an End to the War in Iraq is offering a Lenten Pledge to Work and Pray for an End to War, a petition and signup drive to widen the circle of activists working for peace.

If you are a Christian looking to make Lenten devotions via acts of service, these and the numerous local efforts in most areas are great places to start.