Why set up a Speak Group?

Linking everyone together and getting everyone moving in campaigns is vital in the task of challenging the structural injustice which exists in the world today. The changes we can bring about by working together are much greater than when we work alone, so clearly this is really important to maximise our campaigning impact. Plus, it's more fun! Coming together in a group to pray and plan will help get people get involved, and things will start to happen. Many people do want to do something but don't know where to begin, but through being together we empower each other. Setting up a SPEAK group means that you are connecting into a wider network of people across the nations with a similar heart. It's a great chance to be encouraged and to encourage others in this vital work.

There are many structural injustices, including world trade and world debt which help keep the majority of the world's population in poverty, many living off less than a dollar a day. People across the globe are slow to recognise these unfair structures and the church as a whole has been slow to recognise the challenge. Because of Jesus' inspiration, the church should be at the forefront. SPEAK groups across the nations exist to be a catalyst to challenge decision makers, society, and also the church as a whole. So lets get this movement moving!! We see SPEAK groups as a really important way to deepen people's involvement and awareness beyond the pray and post actions.

There are a number of important roles that groups might fulfil:

• They can help those already involved in social action to relate this to their faith
• They can bring those working in this area together to support and encourage one another and share problems, successes and answers to prayer
• They can model a way of campaigning and praying, which brings petitioning God and petitioning people together. This creates a powerful dynamic like no other!
• They can help those who God is challenging on these issues to get involved and gain confidence, linking them to local work They can help challenge ignorance and apathy amongst Christians

Student or City SPEAK Groups

SPEAK Groups are an ideal place where students and young adults can create community and be empowered together to live ethically and use our voices to speak out about injustice. By living out the gospel together we have natural chances to share our faith and the source of our hope with people searching spiritually. They can be a link between different Christian groups, and create unity. SPEAK groups can act as the vital, much needed catalyst in their own locality to network and motivate their local Christian Union, cell groups or churches. Some SPEAK groups have even come up with a strategy of how to network and motivate their whole region! SPEAK groups all over the UK and USA act as key motivating forces. They are the catalysts in the chemical reaction of social and spiritual transformation!

For more information, take a look at the SPEAK Groups Manual. There are also hard copies of the SPEAK Groups Manual available on request.