Since
1997 a group of Christian leaders from across various denominations,
networks and organisations have met regularly to reflect from
a faith perspective on politics and the peace process in Northern
Ireland. Over recent months we have been discussing how a voice
of hope can be raised in the ongoing political stalemate facing
our communities.
The
statement, Renewing Hope, and the further reflections
which accompany it, is offered by the group as a invitation
to committed engagement with the challenge of building our future
together.
In
the aftermath of the election results we will be publishing
the statement in the local press. It will also be sent with
an invitation to meet the group, to the new Westminster MP's,
the new Secretary of State and Irish government ministers.
It will also be distributed to local councillors and local churches
and published in the local press on Tuesday 17 May.
In the week of Pentecost it is our desire to bring to bear a
Christian voice to remind all of us that hope can be renewed
when we have the faith, imagination and commitment to work for
a future in which all of us can share.
Our
group:
Doug Baker, Tim Bartlett, David Campton, Lesley Carroll, Harry
Casey, Stephen Cave, Ken Clarke, Tony Davidson, Alastair Dunlop,
John Dunlop, Michael Earle, Tim Foley, Harold Good, Ken Good,
Michael Jackson, Karen Jardine, Norman Jardine, Henry Keys,
John Kyle, Brian Lennon, Walter Lewis, John McAreavey, Harold
Miller, Fred Munce, Patrick O'Connor, Michael Parker, David
Porter, Gerry Reynolds, Geraldine Smyth, David Stevens, Tom
Toner, Donald Watts, Denise Wright.