Bishop of London launches the “Big Brew”

11/07/08

The Bishop of London, Dr Richard Chartres, today launched the Diocese of London’s Fairtrade Day, in which churches across London will be encouraged to promote the use of Fairtrade goods.

The Bishop of London launched the Big Brew, a Traidcraft sponsored initiative from the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral by inviting parishes across the Diocese to host a Big Brew on Saturday 12 July. This event was hosted by churches in the City, which has already gained Fairtrade status.

Saturday 12 July has been designated as Fairtrade Day for the Diocese of London and The Big Brew aims to turn local churches into Fairtrade cafes for the day, welcoming the local community and serving free tea and coffee. These events will not only attempt to promote the use of Fairtrade goods, but also demonstrate the practical steps Londoners can take in tackling global poverty.

Fairtrade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. The Diocese of London is committed to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers across the developing world.

Up to 70 churches across London plan to host a Big Brew event on Saturday, ranging from coffee mornings, art exhibitions and family fun days, all with Fairtrade refreshments available.

The Bishop of London, Dr Richard Chartres, said:

“The Big Brew is about bringing Fairtrade products to local communities across London, whilst fulfilling our commitment as a Church to fighting global poverty.

“As part of London Challenge 2012, we hold the aspiration of achieving Fairtrade Status as a Diocese and this is related to our determination to express God’s love in the interconnected world in which we live.”

For further information on the London Fairtrade Diocese Campaign visit http://fairtrade.london.anglican.org/.