The resource is part of an ongoing collaboration, which began in March 2020, between the World Council of Churches (WCC) and The Clewer Initiative. The collaboration has a particular focus on ending child slavery.
The two organisations saw the potential for creating a resource, similar to Woman in the Shadows, Children in the Shadows and Journeys (past Lent devotionals by The Clewer Initiative), but with an international focus.
Bishop Alastair Redfern explains: “Modern slavery is an example of a crime which requires a united but also contextualised response. Because modern slavery and exploitation is present in every community across our globe, the Church has a huge opportunity and responsibility to be on the frontline, identifying and protecting vulnerable people who are at risk of exploitation and caring for victims. It can also advocate for change at the highest levels, using its prophetic voice to challenge governments and cultures.
“Our goal with True Freedom is to help Christians learn more about modern slavery as well as explore what it might look like to fight exploitation in different contexts. It has been humbling to hear from brothers and sisters from around the world who are already passionate about eradicating exploitation and to tell their stories as part of this course.
“The Clewer Initiative has been developing resources for the Church of England, the Anglican Communion and partner churches for a number of years. It is an enormous privilege to collaborate with the World Council of Churches and make this act of witness together.”
