Parliamentarians around the UK get book on Christian heritage for Easter

The Christian Institute has posted a copy of Dr Sharon James’ How Christianity Transformed the World to politicians at Westminster, Holyrood, Cardiff Bay and Stormont in what may be the first initiative of its kind.

The book, which echoes themes from Tom Holland’s seminal book Dominion, is written from a distinctively evangelical perspective, citing examples of believers across the world who have transformed society by following Christ in the public square.

Dr James, Policy Analyst at The Christian Institute, said:

“I am absolutely delighted we’ve been able to post this particular book to Parliamentarians, because it is full of inspiring testimonies.

“Without the impact of Christians following the teachings of Christ in the public square, the world would be less just, less free, less educated, more cruel, and more poor. Above all, it would be without hope – the ultimate hope of life in Christ.

“There is no doubt that there is a renewed interest in the Christian faith in the UK, including among some of our politicians. There is a huge religious literacy gap and our hope is that this book will help politicians to better understand what the Christian faith really teaches.

“I invite Christians to join us in praying that MPs, Peers, MSPs, MLAs and MSs will read this book, and consider the claims of the Saviour who inspires such devotion that his followers have turned the world upside down. And don’t forget to invite your elected representatives to church this Easter!”

The cover letter, signed by The Christian Institute’s Director, Ciarán Kelly, reads as follows:

“As Easter approaches, please accept this small gift as a mark of our appreciation for your contribution to public service. We regularly pray for you and your colleagues.

“You have been serving our nation at a time when it is common to question both its heritage and its future. Whether you ‘do God’ or not, it is clear that as a result many are discovering a hidden truth: Christianity has been a force for good in this country.

“At The Christian Institute we believe that the ideals we all hold dear – justice, freedom and compassion – originate in the Christian faith. How Christianity Transformed the World by Dr Sharon James considers some of the ways this has been demonstrated through the course of history, encompassing human rights, the dignity of women, religious freedom, philanthropy, healthcare and education. I commend it to you.”

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

• Sharon James is available for interview in the run up to Good Friday, from Monday 30 March to Thursday 2 April. To arrange an interview, contact Simon Calvert.

• Interview with the author: youtube.com/watch?v=9_T7lV8ceP4

• For more information on the book, go to: sharonjames.org/books/how-christianity-transformed-the-world