The Search For Truth Behind The Headlines

Recorded talks from the event: https://woodlandschurch.net/talks/series/swords-into-ploughshares

Islamic extremism, refugees, human trafficking and the challenges of meeting the Sustainable Development Goals are among the issues to be explored by a range of experts at a Conference in Bristol on 6^th February highlighting the role conflict plays in holding back global development.

Held at Woodlands Church, Woodland Road, Clifton, speakers will include Richard McCallum of Oxford’s Centre for Muslim-Christian Studies who will focus on Islamic State, and former Thornbury MP and Government Minister Steve Webb who will investigate how political engagement can help to overcome conflict. The aim is to inform and empower Christians and people of goodwill across the city.

The ‘Global Aware’ conference is to be attended by 30 Christian and humanitarian charities who will be offering ways of practical engagement through exhibiting their work. This includes CAFOD, Christian Aid, Tearfund and South West Fairtrade.

Attendees will be given a choice of two workshops following keynote talks from barrister and advocate of the International Justice Mission, James Ewins, and strategic advisor for Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Joel Edwards. The conference will end with lunch supplied by Bristol’s Surplus Supper Club, part of FareShare South West.

Christian Aid’s Head of International Development, Paul Valentin, who will speak on the current refugee crisis, said:
“Our news is filled daily with stories of people fleeing conflict zones. The suffering they endured at home, and while trying to reach a place of safety is extreme. But at the same time, popular sentiment all too often seems opposed to the presence of large numbers of refugees in Western Europe”.

“How do we as Christians respond to this reality? It’s all too easy to feel helpless. We need to forge a way forward with a sense of purpose and hope. The conference is about trying to find answers. We hope as many people as people will join us in that search”.

Tickets for the conference, entitled ‘Swords into Ploughshares’, cost £5 and are available via https://gaconference2016.eventbrite.co.uk
Event details (Link active until 06/02/16): Click Here