Saturday 10 February 2007

Amazing Grace - the movie


Who can deny the power of Amazing Grace by John Newton? It is a wonderful song in praise to the God who changed Newton from slave trader to preacher in an incredible conversion. Sunday 25th March is designated as Amazing Grace Sunday in the UK. Churches in the UK are being asked to sing Amazing Grace on this day and to pray for an end to modern day slavery. I wonder could we manage that?

It seems it is only once every 'Preston Guild' that the opportunity naturally arises to talk openly about our faith. Thankfully, for all of its negative aspects, the world of cinema occasionally provides us with just such an opportunity. The last conversation starter, whether you loved it or hated it, was The Da Vinci Code. Now we have Amazing Grace, the story of William Wilberforce and the abolition of the slave trade. If the subject matter and the top class cast is anything to go by, it should be a good and thought-provoking watch, not only for Christians of all flavours, but for those who are seeking more than a largely materialistic world can offer. The film opens in cinemas in the UK on March 23rd. Could you treat someone to a night out at the flicks?

It is a sad fact of life that slavery is not a thing of the past. There are many parts of the world where the bonds of slavery still subjugate God's people; men, women and children. Through the release of this film, the movie makers are combining forces with campaigners to bring an end to this scandal. Follow the links below to find out more about the film and the campaign.

Amazing Grace movie site.
Amazing Grace Sunday information.
The Amazing Change campaign.
Stop the Traffik - Global campaign to bring an end to people trafficking.

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