The Bishop of Oxford aims to “give new hope” to people around the world who are facing conflict and the climate crisis by taking part in a fundraising walk.
Bishop Steven Croft is joining hundreds of activists from across the United Kingdom this May in pledging to walk 300,000 steps for global charity Christian Aid.
The challenge will form part of the events for Christian Aid Week (15-21 May).
READ MORE: Hero teacher drives to Ukraine for the second time with medical supplies to rescue dogs
Bishop Steven said: “We have witnessed the devastating consequences of the war in Ukraine and the effects of the pandemic, both contributing to the fastest rise in the cost of living for a generation.
“In these dark days we can feel powerless to change anything about ourselves or the world around us. But we can pray, we can act, we can give and we can stay informed about the world beyond our doorsteps."
Although Ukraine is nearly 7,000 miles away, Christian Aid has warned the war will drive up food prices in Zimbabwe and around the globe as large amounts of the world's food come from Ukraine.
The Bishop said: "The money I’m hoping to raise will go a lot further than just 300,000 steps. My thanks to all who donate to such an important cause."
In rural Zimbabwe, seven out of ten women rely on farming to earn a living and provide for their families, according to Christian Aid.
In times of drought, many families can only afford to eat one bowl of porridge a day.
Jessica Mwedzi lives in Chadanyika village, Mutoko District in the northeast of the country.
She explains, “One year, we had no rain. The scorching sun burnt my crops just as they were about to bloom. It was so painful and disheartening.”
“My children crave a decent meal, but I can’t provide. It pains me to send them to bed hungry”.
Through local partners, Christian Aid claims to help the most at-risk communities in Mutoko and Mudzi districts.
Christian Aid’s church engagement officer for Oxford, Phil Evans, said: “We are all connected. Whether it’s fleeing violence or dealing with the effects of the climate crisis, those in desperate need must be supported.
“Please support Bishop Steven if you can, so together we can help our global neighbours.”
To support Bishop Steven’s 300,000 steps challenge visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/steven-croft2
Read more from this author
This story was written by Shosha Adie.
She joined the team in 2022 as a digital reporter.
To get in touch with her email: Shosha.Adie@newsquest.co.uk
Follow her on Twitter: @ShoshaAdie
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