Wilberforce: A Model for Today's Grassroots Activists
by christiansunite.com
February 24, 2007
WASHINGTON (christiansunite.com) -- "The movie Amazing Grace will rouse a new generation of Christians to follow in the footsteps of forgotten hero William Wilberforce," said Concerned Women for America's President Wendy Wright. This inspiring biography depicts the life of William Wilberforce, a Member of Parliament who fought to end Britain's slave trade, and the influence of his mentor John Newton, a former slave ship captain and author of the hymn Amazing Grace."Amazing Grace illustrates the historic impact that Evangelical activists have had on society and laws, especially in promoting respect for human life," said Wright. "One of my favorite scenes is when William Wilberforce, struggling over whether to serve God or to serve in Parliament, is confronted with the agonies of slavery and challenged to promote God's will on Earth by serving in government to end slavery.
"Along with his persistent pressing for laws to abolish slavery, Wilberforce educated and activated citizens to create a climate for legislators to pass virtuous laws. He exposed the horrors of the slave trade, placed the evidence publicly to cause all to see, gathered petitions, held rallies, assembled coalitions, promoted slogans and jabbed people's consciences over the right of all humans to be free and treated with dignity," said Wendy Wright.
Dr. Janice Crouse, Senior Fellow of CWA's Beverly LaHaye Institute, said, "As the 200th anniversary of Britain's abolition of slavery approaches, this movie is a beautiful reminder of the freedom for which so many, including William Wilberforce, have fought. Evangelicals have been on the forefront of many social battles, leaving a dramatic impact on history. My heart is encouraged by the work of Wilberforce, a man who strived tirelessly for 20 years before he saw change. CWA continues to fight a modern day version of slavery ˜ human trafficking. Our prayer is that we will follow in Wilberforce's commitment to prevail over injustice and inhumane evil in our world.
"The favorite hymn Amazing Grace was written after John Newton found forgiveness and peace from his many years of slave trading. He was a deeply convicted man who was broken and healed by the mercy and grace he found in his Heavenly Father. Churches and families have been blessed for centuries by singing this passionate and timeless hymn."
Amazing Grace opens in theatres nationwide today, Friday, February 23.
Concerned Women for America is the nation's largest public policy women's organization.
