To celebrate 25 years of service to the poor, Church Action on Poverty is to hold a service and reception at Manchester Cathedral on Friday 13 July 2007, which will be attended by all members, friends and supporters of the ministry.

The service will be lead by the Dean of Manchester Cathedral, Rev Rogers Govender, with an address by Deacon Lewis Rose, CAP Chairperson and Coordinator of Scottish Churches Industrial Mission. Also taking part will be Paul Goggins MP, CAP's second National Coordinator between 1989 - 1997.

A separate parliamentary reception, hosted by John Battle MP - CAP's first National Coordinator - is taking place on Tuesday 26 June 2007. Speakers will include Baroness Rev Kathleen Richardson and the Bishop of Ripon, the Rt Rev John Packer.

Church Action on Poverty was launched in 1982 as an ecumenical response to the re-emergence of poverty as a major issue of public concern in the UK. It rapidly grew into an effective campaigning organisation within the churches, working in partnership with people in poverty and a wide range of other partners across the UK.

"Over the past quarter of a century, we have appreciated the support we have received from a wide range of organisations and individuals," said CAP.

"As well as celebrating the past, we hope to use the occasion of our quarter century to share some of our hopes and plans for the future."

The service takes place from 7:30-9pm.