Last year my family followed Christian Aid’s ‘Count Your Blessings’ calendar for Lent which provides daily reflections to remind us of the way we are so blessed in this country and also pray for those in the world’s poorest communities and take some practical action to support them too. It’s a really worthwhile exercise, so this year we’re doing it again and last night we downloaded the brand new app to go with it. It’s looking very good and I’m quite happy to give it a plug. This is the official press release to go with it:
With Lent beginning on Wednesday February 13, Christian Aid has launched a brand new mobile app to help people pause and think about their lives and those of others around the world.
Using stunning photography and thought provoking daily reflections, the free ‘Count Your Blessings’ app aims to be a source of inspiration throughout the 40 days of Lent.
Users will be able to get daily notifications, hear uplifting stories from Christian Aid projects and take actions in solidarity with the world’s poorest people. Optional actions include giving 10p for every bedroom in your house as a reminder of how fortunate we are to have shelter and stopping to pray for people living in conflict.
Optimised for the retina display on iphones, ipads and HD Android devices, but available on non-HD devices as well, the app shows off some of the best images from around the world taken from the extensive Christian Aid photo archive.
Christian Aid’s Head of Communications, Steven Buckley, said he hoped the app would enrich people’s prayer life during the festive period.
‘Lent is a great opportunity to stop and think about the many blessings we enjoy and to spare a thought for those less fortunate,’ he said.
‘Many of us live busy lives and finding time to do this can be difficult. The app is designed to be easy to use and accessible while on the go.
‘Lent isn’t just about giving up things we enjoy. It can be a time to be thoughtful, to pray and take positive actions which make a difference to our fellow human beings.’
Users will be able to keep a running total of all their ‘give, act and pray’ actions throughout Lent while also seeing the global total from other users of the app, creating a sense of community.
The app is available now for download from the Apple Store and Google Play and also from www.christianaid.org.uk/lent.
You can find out more about Count Your Blessings at Christian Aid’s website which includes resources specifically designed for children, youth and small groups.
Categories: Christian organisations, Overseas aid, Poverty
Have you seen Christian Aid’s new TV advert yet? 
Believe that extreme poverty can be eradicated 
God and Politics in the UK 