Meeting of the Parliament

Meeting date: Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Official Report 915KB pdf

Time for Reflection

Good afternoon. The first item of business is time for reflection, and our leader today is Chibuzor Tina Amadi, United Kingdom parliamentary liaison for Christian Solidarity Worldwide, who joins us remotely.

As the parliamentary liaison for CSW, I am charged with working with elected members and members of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to ensure that human rights are upheld around the world, in direct relation to freedom of religion or belief under article 18 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Today, I am reminded in particular that we should reflect on the profound responsibilities and opportunities that lie before us. In Scripture, James, chapter 1, verse 27 offers a powerful reminder:

“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.”

That verse speaks directly to our roles as elected members, civil servants, civil society advocates and parliamentarians, highlighting the essential nature of our work in caring for the most vulnerable people in society.

The essence of our role is encapsulated not just in the execution of duties but in the spirit in which we undertake them. Micah, chapter 6, verse 8, elegantly frames that spirit:

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

That directive calls us to a higher standard of conduct: to pursue justice, embrace kindness, and maintain humility in our service.

In the corridors of power, our decisions and actions have the potential to shape lives and futures. That reality brings with it a solemn duty to use our positions not for personal gain or partisan agendas but for the betterment of all, especially those who are unable to advocate for themselves. Our commitment must be to the liberation, care, provision, safeguarding and assurance of justice, peace and equity for every citizen.

That reflection is about not just adhering to a moral compass but recognising that our true purpose lies in service to others. The hallmark of genuine ministerial service is measured not in accolades or achievements but in the positive impact that we make on the lives of those who are most in need: the dejected and marginalised.

As we navigate the complexities of our governance and policy making, let us be guided by those scriptural principles, which urge us to be mindful that each decision, each law and each initiative should be a reflection of our commitment to justice, kindness and humility.

Our role on this platform for meaningful change is an opportunity to create a legacy of compassion, fairness and equity. Let that reflection serve as a reminder of our duty to lead with integrity, empathy and an unwavering commitment to the common good. [Applause.]