Manchester is a Fairtrade diocese, whereby the diocese supports the farmers who often do not get paid properly for the produce they grow. In this way, we follow our Gospel-inspired commitment to justice for the poor.
"With Fairtrade you have the power to change the world every day. With simple shopping choices you can get farmers a better deal. And that means they can make their own decisions, control their futures and lead the dignified life everyone deserves." - The Fairtrade Foundation
The story so far
For almost twenty years, over half of our churches have been committed to buying and selling only Fairtrade tea and coffee. Beginning this partnership in 2006, enthusiasm still remains strong today. Our churches buy and sell a wide range of Fairtrade goods, organise events, join campaigns, and seek to learn from the people directly affected.
How to get involved
You can incorporate Fairtrade into your parish using the new Fairtrade Place of Worship scheme. This scheme has only two core requirements to be awarded Fairtrade Place of Worship status:
- Use Fairtrade products wherever possible (at least tea, coffee and sugar) and share information about Fairtrade products with the wider congregation.
- Integrate Fairtrade into the life of your place of worship, at Fairtrade Fortnight or other times of the year. For example through events, stalls and worship.
There is also an informal group tasked with promoting Fairtrade in the Manchester Diocese, which can give advice and recources on becoming a Fairtrade Church. For information, contact the diocesan Just Change group by email, or find out more over at the Fairtrade Foundation website.
The next chapter
Work for Fairtrade and trade justice is still needed. Recent political changes have created uncertainty about international trade and the effect on workers in the poorest countries. Meanwhile, climate change and the global refugee crisis pose new challenges. It is more important than ever to listen, learn, and speak up on behalf of vulnerable producers, workers, and their families.
Christian Aid Prayer for Fairtrade
As I enter the street market
Wheel my trolley at the superstore
Leaf through a catalogue, or log on to the internet:
Be with me and help me
When I spend money
Be with me and help me
To see the market place as you see it
As wide as the world you love so much.
Be with us and help us
To share the markets we share
For all people.
As we live under your steady gaze,
So we can change, by your gracious love.
Amen