Partnering with the global Church
Did you know the EFC is just one of 166 national evangelical alliances around the world? Together, they comprise the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA), which represents over 600 million Christians, most of whom are in the global South.
As a WEA member alliance, the EFC is a partner with the global body of Christ on mission, in disciple-making, and sometimes suffering. As the EFC strives to equip the Canadian Church for faithful public witness in uncertain times, it can learn from the Church in Ukraine, the Middle East, Nigeria and other places where Christians have firsthand experience of being faithful witnesses through trials.
Several EFC staff and former staff are involved in WEA leadership including:
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EFC President David Guretzki, Vice-Chair, WEA International Council
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Brian Stiller (former EFC president) is a WEA global ambassador, and the EFC hosts his Dispatches blog.
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Christine MacMillan is the WEA senior advisor on social justice as well as chair of the WEA Global Human Trafficking Task Force.
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Janet Epp Buckingham
(former EFC director of law and public policy) is the WEA's director, Geneva office to the UN
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Phil Wagler is the EFC's global liaison. In this role, he convenes Canadians who serve a variety of WEA ministries.
The WEA includes commissions on mission, religious liberty, theology, women, youth as well as initiatives on human trafficking, refugees, leadership training, generosity, creation care, business and more.
Canadians can donate online to support the WEA and individual Canadians who work there.
Make a positive contact with your MP this summer
MPs are now home to spend time in their ridings. They often host or attend barbecues and other local events.
These events create an ideal opportunity to meet your MP in a positive setting and on a positive note.
Why should you make the effort? There are several reasons, actually.
The Bible tells us not just to obey our governing authorities (Rom 13:1), but to pray for kings and all those in authority (1 Tim 2:2). Praying for someone we have met is much easier and more personal than praying for a stranger. And, conversely, we feel more connected to a person that we are praying for.
Representing a riding as an MP is a stressful, demanding job. It takes a toll on family life and health. It’s a good idea to say thank you and express appreciation for your MP’s service to the community, even if you don’t agree with all of your MP’s actions or views. Even if you didn’t vote for them.
Meeting your local MP in a positive context sets the tone for future interaction. There may be times you want to ask your MP to take a certain action or when you may disagree with your MP’s position on an issue.
Your MP may be more open to your perspective if you’ve had a positive interaction in the past.
So, consider going to an event hosted by your local MP. Or make a point of introducing yourself and expressing your appreciation for your MP’s service if you see them at a community event. You could even stop by the MP’s office and convey your thanks to the staff.
For more tips on how and why to engage with elected officials, see the EFC’s Civic Engagement Kit at www.TheEFC.ca/CivicEngagementKit.