International charity and church leaders' invitation to conference ‘where faith meets urgency’

'Powered by Hope' is aimed at encouraging people to explore the power of hope to create change, and consider all the ways they can take action around poverty and injustice.

It’s happening on Saturday, October 4 at the Friends Meeting House, in Mount Street, Manchester, and involves guest speakers, practical workshops and worship.

Among the speakers is Rev Ronald Nathan, a Christian minister and consultant, working with leaders and organisations throughout Africa, the Americas, the Caribbean, and Europe.

This year, Rev Nathan received the Paul Robeson Award in recognition of his lifelong contributions to Black political activism and Pan-Africanism.

He said this conference will be a place to ‘confront the world as it is and re-imagine the world as it could be’, adding: "In a world shaken by crisis after crisis, Powered by Hope stands as a bold declaration: faith is not a retreat, it's a response.

“This conference matters because it reminds us that Christian hope is not wishful thinking — it’s fuel for action. It gathers a movement of people committed to transforming compassion into justice, belief into impact, and prayer into partnership with the poor and marginalised around the world.

“At a time when global inequality is deepening, conflict is displacing millions, and the climate crisis is hitting the most vulnerable hardest, Powered by Hope offers space not just for lament, but for courage. It invites us to take Jesus at His word - that the good news of the gospel is for the poor, the oppressed, and the overlooked.

“We are called to be more than witnesses to suffering - we are called to be participants in God’s mission of restoration. This conference is where faith meets urgency. It’s where we equip ourselves - spiritually, practically, and collectively - to carry hope into the darkest places.”

For 80 years Christian Aid has worked to challenge the injustice of poverty, tackling its root causes and championing people’s rights. Together with UK churches, the charity has been putting faith into action by demanding change from those in power, in solidarity with people living in poverty.

Christian Aid’s Activism and Campaigns Manager Luke Harman said: “We can’t wait to welcome people to Powered by Hope - whether you're a seasoned campaigner or just curious about putting faith into action, this is the event for you.”

Among other speakers on the day is Dr Ruth Valerio, who is Programmes, Partnerships and Advocacy Director at the charity Embrace the Middle East. She is also an author and canon theologian of Rochester Cathedral.

She said: “We are created to be part of community and to put our faith into action together - and now is a time when we need each other more than ever. I'm delighted to be part of Powered by Hope because I know I need like-minded others to give me the strength to keep seeking justice and tackling poverty. So don't struggle along on your own - come and join us! I know you will leave with fresh motivation and inspiration.”

Sarah Corbett is also on the programme. Sarah is an award-winning activist and author who founded the global Craftivist Collective and who has worked with various organisations from Girl Guiding to The Climate Coalition.

Melanie Nazareth is the Churches Project Officer at Green Christian and part of the Christian Climate Action team. She also works part time as a family lawyer.

AndWendy Lloyd is a spiritual director and pilgrim guide for MullAnotherWay, on the Isle of Mull, Scotland. She is also an associate member of the Iona Community and their communications manager.

Rev Nathan added: “Christian Aid has always stood on the belief that poverty is political, not inevitable. Powered by Hope is a powerful reminder that, together, we can build a future rooted in justice, driven by compassion, and powered by a hope that does not disappoint."

To register to attend Powered by Hope, please go to: Powered by Hope - Christian Aid.