Methodist churches challenged to eliminate discrimination and inequality

The Methodist Church is encouraging member churches to do more to eliminate discrimination and inequality as part of its 'Equally different?' campaign.

The campaign comes one month after the Church received its first major report on equality and diversity at this year's Methodist Conference.

The report identified the need for proper theological reflection on discrimination issues as well as practical action to tackle discrimination within the Church as well as in wider society.

The Equally different? campaign aims to meet these needs partly by challenging churches to set aside a month for reflection on equalities and diversity issues.

Alison Parker, Equalities and Diversity Project Worker, says, "Issues of equality are the business of all Christians; this is about you and me as much as about 'others'.

"This campaign is not a shortcut to an inclusive Church, but should help to support Christians as they explore their calling to seek equality for all."

The Equally different? campaign has produced support material for churches to use in house groups and workshops, and is accompanied by an interactive forum on the Methodist Church's website where people can post comments and resources.

On the web: www.methodist.org.uk/equallydifferent