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Helping your groups understand the issues facing the world will help them understand their place in the mission of God. These Ready-to-use Justice resources from Tearfund will hopefully help you have dynamic conversations and creative ideas to be global change makers

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. Proverbs 31:8-9.

Last month’s theme was ‘hunger’ and we shared some heart-breaking statistics and discovered that people, especially in the UK are far more interested in searching online about McDonalds than they are about malnutrition. How might we change the conversation? How about with a challenge?

At the end of March, people around the UK will be taking part in the Mean Bean Challenge - five days of eating a small amount of rice and beans for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Here are two ways children and young people can be involved:

Run a youth weekend and take part in the challenge for one day. Encourage others in your church to sponsor your youth group and donate this money to Tearfund for our work with families facing the reality of hunger and starvation.

Invite families in your church to switch one meal at home for basic rice and beans, use the time to talk about global issues and pray for poor communities.

Post your group’s progress to social media - record short videos of how members of the group are feeling (although be aware of safe-guarding implications here). For older members of your group, or even your church team - consider taking on the full challenge, it will change your perspective and give you great stories to tell!

You can find out more, and get your hands on free resources here.