Christian Aid celebrates 80th anniversary

Thursday, 12th June 2025

Christian Aid celebrates 80th anniversary

A Service of Thanksgiving and Reflection on the 80th anniversary of Christian Aid was held at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 12th June 2025.

The service was conducted by the Reverend David Stanton, Sub-Dean, who said in his Bidding:

'We gather on holy ground to give thanks to God for the life and witness of Christian Aid. In these 80 years, Christian Aid has witnessed the unstoppable power of hope in action; providing long-term development support and humanitarian relief worldwide, highlighting suffering, tackling injustice and championing people's rights. With global partners, Christian Aid has reached millions, helping them overcome poverty, rebuilding lives, and facing the challenges of today. Together we work to build a world where everyone can live with dignity, equality, and justice: work rooted and grounded in love.'

About the service

The Address was given by the Reverend Dr Jerry Pillay, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, and Minister in the United Presbyterian Church of South Africa.

The Right Reverend Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London and Chair of the Board of Trustees of Christian Aid, and Patrick Watt, Chief Executive Officer of Christian Aid, gave a Reflection.

Readings were given by Bishop Mike Royal, General Secretary, Churches Together in England, and by the Reverend Canon Kate Bottley.

Placards representing Christian Aid's work were carried to the High Altar as The Sacred Choir and Kingdom Choir sang When I needed a neighbour, with words specially commissioned to mark the 80th anniversary.

Storm Cecile read her own poem, The unstoppable power of hope.

The congregation joined an Act of Recommitment, which concluded with the words: 'Christian Aid Family, we are part of a global neighbourhood. As we stand together, we connect and commit to one another and to the world in the unstoppable power of hope.'

Prayers were led by the Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival, Minor Canon and Sacrist.

The service was sung by the Westminster Abbey Special Service Choir, directed by Matthew Jorysz, Sub-Organist. The organ was played by Paul Greally, Assistant Organist.

About Christian Aid

In the aftermath of the Second World War – with lives upended and countries laid to waste – the churches of Britain and Ireland united to support refugees. From communities who were themselves reeling from the effects of the war, congregations gave sacrificially and in solidarity, laying the cornerstone of a movement that would go on to become Christian Aid.

Today, the charity seeks to eradicate extreme poverty by tackling its root causes. Together with people living in poverty, it amplifies voices to speak truth to power and create lasting change. 

Further reading

Order of Service - A Service of Thanksgiving and Reflection on the 80th anniversary of Christian Aid (PDF, 375KB)

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