The church does not exist in a vacuum; it is an integral part of the social order. To this extent, the church should be perceived as functional and relevant, in view of its place in the social order. In recent times, secular entities have been seen to display a stronger sense of social responsibility than those of the household of faith. While corporate organizations subscribe to the function of social responsibility as a code of business principle, Christian social responsibility is an extension of the church’s mandate Missio Dei. It is under-girded by Christian theology and not a commercial policy towards achieving an economic agenda.
This document discusses various concepts and practices related to discernment. It begins by defining discernment and spiritual discernment. It then outlines six Old Testament norms for authentic prophecy and presents systems views and diagrams related to discernment. The rest of the document provides guidance on the qualities of discerners, methods of discernment including Ignatian rules and exercises, and examples of discernment in practice. It emphasizes the importance of humility, charity, courage, and having a co-discerner in the discernment process.
This presentation was given on August 10, 2013 to the parish catechetical leaders in Savannah, GA. The first half is the importance of continually forming yourself and the second half is about forming your catechists . Ongoing formation is important for all of us.
This document discusses key aspects of Catholic doctrine and catechesis. It addresses the situation of religious ignorance and confusion among some Filipino Catholics. It emphasizes presenting doctrine in a way that is Christocentric, Trinitarian, and shows the inner coherence and relevance of truths. Catechesis should integrate doctrine, morality, worship and present the Gospel message as liberating and salvation. It discusses teaching doctrine, morality and worship in a way that relates to Filipino experiences and values and helps close the gap between faith and life. The overall goal of catechesis is to form mature disciples where Christ is the center of one's identity and life.
The document outlines three dimensions of the Christian faith: doctrine, morals, and worship. It aims to make readers familiar with these dimensions and appreciate the importance of integrated catechesis, or religious education that combines all three dimensions. An effective catechesis teaches the core beliefs or doctrine of Christianity (head), inspires moral values and commitments to service (hands), and fosters community, prayer, and celebration (heart).
The document provides an overview of the field of missiology. It defines missiology as the formal study of the theology, history, philosophies and strategic implementation of Christian missions. It discusses key topics in missiology including the meaning and terminology of missiology, trends in mission theology, philosophies of mission, and factors to consider in cross-cultural strategy. The document also summarizes changes in the current global context that impact approaches to mission work.
Este documento discute el concepto de evangelización. Define evangelización como el "primer anuncio" del Evangelio de Jesús y su mensaje de salvación. Explica que evangelizar es importante porque Jesús lo hizo y el mundo necesita buenas noticias. También describe los efectos del evangelio como un cambio interior y deseo de compartir la fe con otros. Finalmente, señala que para evangelizar se necesita tanto el mensaje como un mensajero transformado, y que Jesús enseñó a evangelizar de forma itinerante y adaptada a cada persona.
This document discusses various concepts and practices related to discernment. It begins by defining discernment and spiritual discernment. It then outlines six Old Testament norms for authentic prophecy and presents systems views and diagrams related to discernment. The rest of the document provides guidance on the qualities of discerners, methods of discernment including Ignatian rules and exercises, and examples of discernment in practice. It emphasizes the importance of humility, charity, courage, and having a co-discerner in the discernment process.
This presentation was given on August 10, 2013 to the parish catechetical leaders in Savannah, GA. The first half is the importance of continually forming yourself and the second half is about forming your catechists . Ongoing formation is important for all of us.
This document discusses key aspects of Catholic doctrine and catechesis. It addresses the situation of religious ignorance and confusion among some Filipino Catholics. It emphasizes presenting doctrine in a way that is Christocentric, Trinitarian, and shows the inner coherence and relevance of truths. Catechesis should integrate doctrine, morality, worship and present the Gospel message as liberating and salvation. It discusses teaching doctrine, morality and worship in a way that relates to Filipino experiences and values and helps close the gap between faith and life. The overall goal of catechesis is to form mature disciples where Christ is the center of one's identity and life.
The document outlines three dimensions of the Christian faith: doctrine, morals, and worship. It aims to make readers familiar with these dimensions and appreciate the importance of integrated catechesis, or religious education that combines all three dimensions. An effective catechesis teaches the core beliefs or doctrine of Christianity (head), inspires moral values and commitments to service (hands), and fosters community, prayer, and celebration (heart).
The document provides an overview of the field of missiology. It defines missiology as the formal study of the theology, history, philosophies and strategic implementation of Christian missions. It discusses key topics in missiology including the meaning and terminology of missiology, trends in mission theology, philosophies of mission, and factors to consider in cross-cultural strategy. The document also summarizes changes in the current global context that impact approaches to mission work.
Este documento discute el concepto de evangelización. Define evangelización como el "primer anuncio" del Evangelio de Jesús y su mensaje de salvación. Explica que evangelizar es importante porque Jesús lo hizo y el mundo necesita buenas noticias. También describe los efectos del evangelio como un cambio interior y deseo de compartir la fe con otros. Finalmente, señala que para evangelizar se necesita tanto el mensaje como un mensajero transformado, y que Jesús enseñó a evangelizar de forma itinerante y adaptada a cada persona.
This document discusses concepts related to chastity and religious life such as:
1) Chastity allows for true knowledge of another person beyond just physical intimacy and practicing self-denial through chastity can help train for marriage.
2) The concept of consecrated religious life originated from Jesus' example of poverty, chastity and obedience and Mary's virginity as a sign of heaven.
3) Nuns have freedoms like pursuing poverty, chastity and obedience without responsibilities of marriage but also face challenges like material hardship, lack of personal flexibility and loneliness.
This document discusses different approaches to understanding Jesus Christ through history. It begins with an overview of biblical, conciliar, and contemporary Christology. It then contrasts Christology "from above," which focuses on Jesus' divinity, and Christology "from below," which focuses on his humanity. While both are important, the latter approach helps appreciate Jesus' full humanity and inspires discipleship. The document also examines biblical sources for Jesus' life, the nature of the gospels, key aspects of his teachings and ministry, his death and resurrection, and ecumenical councils that defined the orthodox understanding of Christ's dual nature. It concludes with some current Christological issues.
This document discusses what it means to be a servant of God. It begins by looking at Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of servanthood, washing his disciples' feet before his crucifixion. Second, it encourages believers by reminding them that God promises to never leave them and strengthen them. Finally, it notes that serving others enriches our lives spiritually and brings satisfaction, as we are blessed to become a blessing to others. The overall message is that Christians should desire to serve God and others humbly as Jesus did.
The religious vows of poverty, celibacy and obedience emerged in the 4th century when some followers of Jesus Christ, inspired by the Holy Spirit, advocated for a new lifestyle in the Church that was closer to the spontaneous inspiration of the Gospel. They wanted to follow the example of Jesus and his first disciples more closely. These vows are outward expressions of the religious life project, which involves total self-donation and radical availability, excluding marriage and exclusive relationships. Living these vows is meant to free people for intimacy with God and enable them to serve the Church and society. The human and biblical foundations of vowed life include Jesus living simply, celibately and obediently, inspiring religious communities to live radically as he
The Eucharist - A Short Course for Catechistsneilmcq
The document discusses the Catholic Church's teachings on the Eucharist from the Catechism. It states that the Eucharist is the mystery of faith, the paschal mystery of God's love made manifest, and the source and summit of Christian life. It provides the bread and wine which through consecration become the body and blood of Christ, continuing his sacrifice and nourishing believers. The Eucharist unites Christians, builds up the Church, and anticipates eternal life with God.
The document discusses holiness as one of the pastoral priorities for the new millennium according to Novo Millennio Ineunte. It defines holiness as the high standard of ordinary Christian living, the perfection of charity, and doing the will of God. The document argues that holiness is for all Christians, not just a few, and can be achieved through everyday actions and avoiding sin. It provides biblical support for the call to holiness and explains that the Catholic Church is holy because it was founded by Jesus Christ and has the means to make people holy through the sacraments and other spiritual practices.
The Jerusalem Council debated whether Gentile converts needed to follow Jewish laws like circumcision. There was disagreement between those like Paul who believed salvation came through faith alone versus others who thought it required following Mosaic law. The Council gathered the apostles and elders to make a ruling. They decided Gentiles did not need to follow Jewish customs but should abstain from idolatry, sexual immorality, eating meat from strangled animals, and blood. This exempted Gentiles from most ceremonial laws and strengthened the unity of the early Church by confirming salvation came through faith in Christ.
The document provides an overview of a discipleship manual that presents the Christian life as a jigsaw puzzle with different biblical truths as puzzle pieces. It outlines key aspects of the Christian life including salvation, judgment, the cross, sanctification, and the goal of spiritual growth. The manual aims to help Christians live out what they have learned about God in a practical way.
The document outlines the history of the early Christian church from the resurrection of Christ to the legalization of Christianity under Emperor Constantine. It discusses key events like Pentecost, the persecutions under Roman emperors, the spread of monasticism, and the Edict of Milan in 313 AD which ended persecutions. It also briefly mentions the Protestant Reformation and key Catholic reforms like the Council of Trent and the Second Vatican Council.
Sacrificing himself for the chance to gain back a fearful, hopeless, unfocussed and prideful human race so that they could lived in His peace.
It is the act of giving. It is also unconditional not in terms of feelings or emotions but in God's perfectly ways of love.
John 13:34-35. Love One Another. I. WHAT JESUS TAUGHT ABOUT “LOVING ONE ANOTHER” II. WHAT PETER TAUGHT ABOUT “LOVING ONE ANOTHER” III. WHAT PAUL TAUGHT ABOUT “LOVING ONE ANOTHER” IV. WHAT JOHN TAUGHT ON “LOVING ONE ANOTHER”
1. To love one another is a commandment – it is not optional!!!
2. Loving one another is of great importance to God and should be to us.
3. To love one another may take some work on our part.
4. If I am truly concerned about my eternal destiny, I will honor my Lord’s request.
5. We are motivated to love one another because of the great love that has been and is bestowed on us.
Pentecost marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the beginning of the Christian church. Over 3,000 people were baptized that day. The church calls us beyond our personal concerns to worship God together. We are stewards of the gifts God has given us, including our time, talents, treasures, and relationships. As stewards, we are called to use our gifts to fulfill God's purposes and support the church through proportional giving according to our abilities. The parish budget for 2012 is around $775,000, and each of the 660 pledging units is asked to pledge an average of $1,174 to meet this goal.
Este documento contiene información sobre el evangelismo personal, incluyendo su definición como un trabajo individual, citas bíblicas que instan a los creyentes a predicar el evangelio por todo el mundo, y varias razones por las cuales se debe evangelizar, como que Jesús nos dio la gran comisión y nos acompaña, es un privilegio y deber de los creyentes, y ayuda a las personas a recibir la salvación y a los creyentes a crecer espiritualmente.
The document provides an overview of Jesus' parables from the Bible. It defines a parable as a short story that teaches a moral or spiritual lesson. Jesus often used parables as a teaching tool to convey important messages about the kingdom of God in an engaging way. The document examines several of Jesus' famous parables, including the parables of the sower, the Good Samaritan, and the workers in the vineyard. It analyzes the key characters, settings, and messages within each parable.
Want to increase the number of spiritual conversations you can have during the ordinary course of life? Quotes from Doug Cecil's book, "The 7 Principles of an Evangelistic Life." My own conversational course is here http://www.evangelismcoach.org/2012/new-dvd-effective-evangelism-conversations/
this powerpoint aim is, "To touch the hearts of people so that through this ppt we can help them to practise works of mercy in their own life according to their capabilities and help them make a difference in today’s world
Articles of belief which are regarded as essential or a brief summary of Christian doctrine. The Creed can be viewed as a response to the desire to believe and to have faith to what has been revealed to us. Just like the apostles of the old, the San Antonio Abad Parish community believes in the Word who has come down to earth in the person of Our Lord, Jesus Christ.
The document outlines an evangelism workshop with the following goals: ensuring participants understand evangelism and the gospel; know how to clearly explain the gospel and engage people in a respectful manner; and know how to use available means and respond to objections. It covers contextualizing evangelism biblically by defining key terms; examining biblical teachings and motivations for evangelism; understanding the roles of God, man, and the Holy Spirit in salvation; and focusing on diplomatically defending and promoting the gospel. The workshop aims to equip Christians to confidently yet graciously share the essential facts of the gospel.
The document discusses key concepts of synodality, or journeying together, in the Catholic Church. It emphasizes that in the synodal Church, the whole community is called together to pray, listen, analyze, dialogue and discern how to best follow God's will in making pastoral decisions. It provides examples of discerning currents like migratory birds detecting wind currents, and calls the Church to enlarge its tent to welcome more people inside and protect those still outside.
Spiritual Leadership for Church Leaders by Joan S. Gray--- A Presentation for...Geoff McLean
Spiritual Leadership for Church Leaders by Joan S. Gray--- A Presentation for Church Leaders by Pastor Geoff McLean, Christ Presbyterian Church, Fairfax. This is intended for use by a leader who is guiding a study of Joan S. Gray's book. Most quotes are directly from the book and include page numbers.
The document provides an overview of the history and development of Catholic Social Teaching. It begins with the roots in the Hebrew Scriptures and calls for justice and love for the poor. Early Christianity saw justice as integral to Jesus' message. During the Middle Ages, figures like St. Francis of Assisi rejected wealth and lived simply with the poor. The Industrial Revolution increased urban poverty and the Church responded by founding organizations to care for the vulnerable. Pope Leo XIII's 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum addressed the conditions of workers and established the Church's advocacy for social and economic justice. Church leaders continue speaking out for justice today through teachings that challenge believers to manifest justice in their moral lives.
4 ppt on the challenge of poverty (short version) by bp broderick pabilloDlgltsbm
The document discusses several topics related to poverty in the Philippines:
1. It defines the different socioeconomic classes in the Philippines based on household income, from the wealthy Class AB making over $100,000 per year to the very poor Class E making as little as $50 per month.
2. It provides data on indicators of poverty such as education levels, health expenditures, unemployment and underemployment rates, and numbers of overseas Filipino workers.
3. It discusses attitudes that can be taken towards the poor, emphasizing the need for genuine concern and love rather than disdain, indifference, patronization, or using the poor.
This document discusses concepts related to chastity and religious life such as:
1) Chastity allows for true knowledge of another person beyond just physical intimacy and practicing self-denial through chastity can help train for marriage.
2) The concept of consecrated religious life originated from Jesus' example of poverty, chastity and obedience and Mary's virginity as a sign of heaven.
3) Nuns have freedoms like pursuing poverty, chastity and obedience without responsibilities of marriage but also face challenges like material hardship, lack of personal flexibility and loneliness.
This document discusses different approaches to understanding Jesus Christ through history. It begins with an overview of biblical, conciliar, and contemporary Christology. It then contrasts Christology "from above," which focuses on Jesus' divinity, and Christology "from below," which focuses on his humanity. While both are important, the latter approach helps appreciate Jesus' full humanity and inspires discipleship. The document also examines biblical sources for Jesus' life, the nature of the gospels, key aspects of his teachings and ministry, his death and resurrection, and ecumenical councils that defined the orthodox understanding of Christ's dual nature. It concludes with some current Christological issues.
This document discusses what it means to be a servant of God. It begins by looking at Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of servanthood, washing his disciples' feet before his crucifixion. Second, it encourages believers by reminding them that God promises to never leave them and strengthen them. Finally, it notes that serving others enriches our lives spiritually and brings satisfaction, as we are blessed to become a blessing to others. The overall message is that Christians should desire to serve God and others humbly as Jesus did.
The religious vows of poverty, celibacy and obedience emerged in the 4th century when some followers of Jesus Christ, inspired by the Holy Spirit, advocated for a new lifestyle in the Church that was closer to the spontaneous inspiration of the Gospel. They wanted to follow the example of Jesus and his first disciples more closely. These vows are outward expressions of the religious life project, which involves total self-donation and radical availability, excluding marriage and exclusive relationships. Living these vows is meant to free people for intimacy with God and enable them to serve the Church and society. The human and biblical foundations of vowed life include Jesus living simply, celibately and obediently, inspiring religious communities to live radically as he
The Eucharist - A Short Course for Catechistsneilmcq
The document discusses the Catholic Church's teachings on the Eucharist from the Catechism. It states that the Eucharist is the mystery of faith, the paschal mystery of God's love made manifest, and the source and summit of Christian life. It provides the bread and wine which through consecration become the body and blood of Christ, continuing his sacrifice and nourishing believers. The Eucharist unites Christians, builds up the Church, and anticipates eternal life with God.
The document discusses holiness as one of the pastoral priorities for the new millennium according to Novo Millennio Ineunte. It defines holiness as the high standard of ordinary Christian living, the perfection of charity, and doing the will of God. The document argues that holiness is for all Christians, not just a few, and can be achieved through everyday actions and avoiding sin. It provides biblical support for the call to holiness and explains that the Catholic Church is holy because it was founded by Jesus Christ and has the means to make people holy through the sacraments and other spiritual practices.
The Jerusalem Council debated whether Gentile converts needed to follow Jewish laws like circumcision. There was disagreement between those like Paul who believed salvation came through faith alone versus others who thought it required following Mosaic law. The Council gathered the apostles and elders to make a ruling. They decided Gentiles did not need to follow Jewish customs but should abstain from idolatry, sexual immorality, eating meat from strangled animals, and blood. This exempted Gentiles from most ceremonial laws and strengthened the unity of the early Church by confirming salvation came through faith in Christ.
The document provides an overview of a discipleship manual that presents the Christian life as a jigsaw puzzle with different biblical truths as puzzle pieces. It outlines key aspects of the Christian life including salvation, judgment, the cross, sanctification, and the goal of spiritual growth. The manual aims to help Christians live out what they have learned about God in a practical way.
The document outlines the history of the early Christian church from the resurrection of Christ to the legalization of Christianity under Emperor Constantine. It discusses key events like Pentecost, the persecutions under Roman emperors, the spread of monasticism, and the Edict of Milan in 313 AD which ended persecutions. It also briefly mentions the Protestant Reformation and key Catholic reforms like the Council of Trent and the Second Vatican Council.
Sacrificing himself for the chance to gain back a fearful, hopeless, unfocussed and prideful human race so that they could lived in His peace.
It is the act of giving. It is also unconditional not in terms of feelings or emotions but in God's perfectly ways of love.
John 13:34-35. Love One Another. I. WHAT JESUS TAUGHT ABOUT “LOVING ONE ANOTHER” II. WHAT PETER TAUGHT ABOUT “LOVING ONE ANOTHER” III. WHAT PAUL TAUGHT ABOUT “LOVING ONE ANOTHER” IV. WHAT JOHN TAUGHT ON “LOVING ONE ANOTHER”
1. To love one another is a commandment – it is not optional!!!
2. Loving one another is of great importance to God and should be to us.
3. To love one another may take some work on our part.
4. If I am truly concerned about my eternal destiny, I will honor my Lord’s request.
5. We are motivated to love one another because of the great love that has been and is bestowed on us.
Pentecost marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the beginning of the Christian church. Over 3,000 people were baptized that day. The church calls us beyond our personal concerns to worship God together. We are stewards of the gifts God has given us, including our time, talents, treasures, and relationships. As stewards, we are called to use our gifts to fulfill God's purposes and support the church through proportional giving according to our abilities. The parish budget for 2012 is around $775,000, and each of the 660 pledging units is asked to pledge an average of $1,174 to meet this goal.
Este documento contiene información sobre el evangelismo personal, incluyendo su definición como un trabajo individual, citas bíblicas que instan a los creyentes a predicar el evangelio por todo el mundo, y varias razones por las cuales se debe evangelizar, como que Jesús nos dio la gran comisión y nos acompaña, es un privilegio y deber de los creyentes, y ayuda a las personas a recibir la salvación y a los creyentes a crecer espiritualmente.
The document provides an overview of Jesus' parables from the Bible. It defines a parable as a short story that teaches a moral or spiritual lesson. Jesus often used parables as a teaching tool to convey important messages about the kingdom of God in an engaging way. The document examines several of Jesus' famous parables, including the parables of the sower, the Good Samaritan, and the workers in the vineyard. It analyzes the key characters, settings, and messages within each parable.
Want to increase the number of spiritual conversations you can have during the ordinary course of life? Quotes from Doug Cecil's book, "The 7 Principles of an Evangelistic Life." My own conversational course is here http://www.evangelismcoach.org/2012/new-dvd-effective-evangelism-conversations/
this powerpoint aim is, "To touch the hearts of people so that through this ppt we can help them to practise works of mercy in their own life according to their capabilities and help them make a difference in today’s world
Articles of belief which are regarded as essential or a brief summary of Christian doctrine. The Creed can be viewed as a response to the desire to believe and to have faith to what has been revealed to us. Just like the apostles of the old, the San Antonio Abad Parish community believes in the Word who has come down to earth in the person of Our Lord, Jesus Christ.
The document outlines an evangelism workshop with the following goals: ensuring participants understand evangelism and the gospel; know how to clearly explain the gospel and engage people in a respectful manner; and know how to use available means and respond to objections. It covers contextualizing evangelism biblically by defining key terms; examining biblical teachings and motivations for evangelism; understanding the roles of God, man, and the Holy Spirit in salvation; and focusing on diplomatically defending and promoting the gospel. The workshop aims to equip Christians to confidently yet graciously share the essential facts of the gospel.
The document discusses key concepts of synodality, or journeying together, in the Catholic Church. It emphasizes that in the synodal Church, the whole community is called together to pray, listen, analyze, dialogue and discern how to best follow God's will in making pastoral decisions. It provides examples of discerning currents like migratory birds detecting wind currents, and calls the Church to enlarge its tent to welcome more people inside and protect those still outside.
Spiritual Leadership for Church Leaders by Joan S. Gray--- A Presentation for...Geoff McLean
Spiritual Leadership for Church Leaders by Joan S. Gray--- A Presentation for Church Leaders by Pastor Geoff McLean, Christ Presbyterian Church, Fairfax. This is intended for use by a leader who is guiding a study of Joan S. Gray's book. Most quotes are directly from the book and include page numbers.
The document provides an overview of the history and development of Catholic Social Teaching. It begins with the roots in the Hebrew Scriptures and calls for justice and love for the poor. Early Christianity saw justice as integral to Jesus' message. During the Middle Ages, figures like St. Francis of Assisi rejected wealth and lived simply with the poor. The Industrial Revolution increased urban poverty and the Church responded by founding organizations to care for the vulnerable. Pope Leo XIII's 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum addressed the conditions of workers and established the Church's advocacy for social and economic justice. Church leaders continue speaking out for justice today through teachings that challenge believers to manifest justice in their moral lives.
4 ppt on the challenge of poverty (short version) by bp broderick pabilloDlgltsbm
The document discusses several topics related to poverty in the Philippines:
1. It defines the different socioeconomic classes in the Philippines based on household income, from the wealthy Class AB making over $100,000 per year to the very poor Class E making as little as $50 per month.
2. It provides data on indicators of poverty such as education levels, health expenditures, unemployment and underemployment rates, and numbers of overseas Filipino workers.
3. It discusses attitudes that can be taken towards the poor, emphasizing the need for genuine concern and love rather than disdain, indifference, patronization, or using the poor.
4 ppt on the challenge of poverty (short version) by bp broderick pabilloDlgltsbm
The document discusses the Catholic Church's teachings around poverty and the poor. It defines material poverty as the most basic meaning of poverty. It also discusses the different social classes in the Philippines based on household income, with the majority (68%) considered low-income class D. Several indicators of widespread poverty in the Philippines are provided, such as many living on $1 or $2 per day. The document advocates for a genuine concern and love for the poor, in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
4 ppt on the challenge of poverty (short version) by bp broderick pabilloDlgltsbm
The document discusses the Catholic Church's teachings around poverty and the poor. It defines material poverty as the primary meaning of poverty, as mentioned in the Bible and Church documents. It also outlines the different social classes in the Philippines based on household income, with the majority (68%) considered low-income Class D, and 23% as very poor Class E. The document calls on Catholics to have genuine concern and love for the poor, and discusses the Church's role in promoting justice and a preferential option for the poor.
Welcoming Christ in Refugees and forcibly displaced Persons - Pastoral GuidelineSuefmm
This document provides pastoral guidelines from the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People and Pontifical Council Cor Unum on welcoming and assisting refugees and forcibly displaced persons. It discusses the Church's duty to help the vulnerable based on Catholic social teaching and Scripture. The document is intended to raise awareness and provide guidance to clergy and laity on caring for refugees' spiritual and material needs.
This document discusses the exercise of love by the church as a community of love. It describes how the charity of the church is a manifestation of Trinitarian love. Charity is seen as a task of the church, with early Christians sharing possessions communally. The intimate nature of the church is expressed through proclaiming God's word, celebrating sacraments, and serving through charity. While justice is important, charity will always be necessary to help those in need. The church's charitable activities should be carried out professionally and with a spirit of love and encounter with God.
This document provides a summary of the Cape Town Commitment from the Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization in 2010. The Commitment links Christian belief with action in the world. It calls on Christians to promote justice and peace, especially for the oppressed and poor. It highlights the need for effective action against issues like slavery, human trafficking, discrimination, and addressing the plight of migrants and marginalized groups. The global Church is called to advocate against injustice and inequality both in the world and within the Church itself.
Creation, justice, compassion and love paper: a 21st Century Methodist Quadri...BarryEJones
It is argued that the existing Methodist Quadrilateral based on inputting authorities is no longer fit-for-purpose, while one based on living outcomes is far more simple, direct and clear to a non-church secular community. This way to present christianity starts from outcomes and
puts traditional theology, dogma and creeds "in the basement".
building" and explains the biblical testaiments message, the Jesus message and the Jesus spirit in four up-front .
This document provides an introduction and overview of Catholic Social Teaching. It begins by noting that Catholic social teaching has deep roots in scripture and has been developed over the past 100+ years through papal and episcopal writings. It then provides definitions of Catholic Social Teaching, noting that it is social, an expression of the Church's ministry of teaching, and calls Catholics to hope in action by putting faith into practice in the world. The document then examines two key aspects of Catholic Social Teaching - charitable works and social justice. It concludes by providing an introduction to how the document can be used to deepen understanding of scriptural foundations.
MLK, The Drum Major Instinct As the note at the top of the attacIlonaThornburg83
MLK, "The Drum Major Instinct"
As the note at the top of the attached speech makes clear, Martin Luther King delivered this sermon just two months before he was killed. Just as with his "Mountain-Top" speech, it seems to reflect a premonition of his own death. The truth of the matter, I believe, is that King knew very well that he risked his life every day in taking a stand for justice. This speech is included at the end of this course precisely because it reminds us of so many of the themes we have dealt with and ends with a stirring reminder of the call to service. MLK The Drum Major Instinct.pdf
We have been stressing in this course that an essential dimension of our humanness – one that is essential to our human dignity and to who we are as human beings – is our relatedness. From the moment we begin to exist, we are part of a web of relationships. Respect for the dignity of every person (including ourselves) calls for carrying out our responsibilities toward these relationships. This is what the value of SOLIDARITY is all about. This assignment calls for you to synthesize and explain (cite relevant passages but also explain in your own words) various facets of the significance of solidarity that have been presented in a number of our readings. You will need to go over these readings and “dig out” key points being made about the importance of our human connectedness.Be sure to follow the instructions for essay assignments in the Syllabus and in the Important Course Information folder. Your answer must be based ONLY on material that is posted in this course on Blackboard. Each question that calls for using a point made by Pope Francis must use a DIFFERENT point, drawn from a different section of the Pope’s message. This assignment calls for answering each question as clearly, concisely, and accurately as possible. You will be graded on the accuracty and approriateness of the content of your answers. The question has several parts. You need to answer each part, separating them clearly in your essay:
1. A principle that has received attention in Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is SOLIDARITY. This principle underlines our responsibility for our relationships/community. In approximately 100 words, explain what this principle means and involves, according to CST.
2. While solidarity includes a concern for all of our human relationships, one very important aspect of its meaning is expressed by the PREFERENTIAL OPTION FOR THE POOR. In approximately 100 words, explain and discuss what CST means by this principle. How is this related to the Felician value of SOLIDARITY WITH THE POOR?
3. Identify, cite, explain, and discuss one specific, important point made by Pope Francis in his 2014 World Day of Peace Message on Fraternity that deals with or relates in an important way with the meaning of SOLIDARITY.
4. Identify, cite, explain, and discuss one specific, important point by Pope Francis that deals with or relates in a significant way wit ...
This document discusses the foundations of Christian community. It defines Christian community as a place where people can know God and each other through spiritual transformation. Key aspects of Christian community include unconditional love, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and spiritual activities like worship, prayer, and communion. The community should foster spiritual growth and equip people to transform the world through their mission. Individuals are transformed through their participation in the Christian community, and the community supports and sustains individuals on their spiritual journeys. Overall, the document explores how Christian community can empower people through spiritual transformation to change the world.
This document discusses the role of the church and work. It argues that the church is not just a building or institution, but rather the collective body of believers called by God. The church often fails to engage the world because it does not see value in work outside the church. However, the Bible shows God using people from all walks of life, including those in STEM fields, to transform the world. As the body of Christ, believers are called to extend God's kingdom through their vocations wherever they are placed.
Pastoral care involves providing spiritual guidance, leadership, and encouragement to a congregation. The pastor's role is derived from the biblical concept of shepherd, with responsibilities including tending the flock through difficult times like illness, death, and bereavement. Effective pastoral care requires certain qualifications in the pastor, including being above reproach, hospitable, and able to teach with authority. The pastor's motivation comes from sharing in God's reconciling love and acting as an instrument of God's grace.
The document discusses changing metaphors for Christian mission in a changing world. It describes how mission is viewed differently in a post-Christian era, with demands for authenticity, unity, and seeing mission as God's work rather than the church's. It also discusses new opportunities, such as transforming communities and families. Finally, it proposes changing metaphors for mission from warrior to gardener, retailer to wholesaler, and hero to human.
This document discusses secularism and its dangers. It defines secularism as marginalizing God and focusing on earthly things. Secularism rejects God as the source of truth and shifts the locus of truth to humanity. When God is rejected, pride and self-sufficiency grow. The document warns that without moral reference points, only personal wishes are considered. It advocates embracing traditional religious beliefs to combat secular values that are attacking Christianity.
The document discusses Catholic social teaching, which provides principles for how to build a just society that respects human dignity. It covers topics like human life and dignity, family and community, rights and responsibilities, preferential option for the poor and vulnerable, work, solidarity, and care for God's creation. The teachings are grounded in scripture and aim to balance human rights with the common good.
1. The document discusses the positive and negative effects of religion on society through examining Catholicism, Islam, and other faiths.
2. It provides examples of how the development of universities by Catholics positively impacted society, while the Crusades had negative effects through violence and conflict.
3. Islam is described as promoting social cohesion through culture and the mosque, but Islamic fundamentalism has hindered development.
This document discusses the Christian social tradition and Passionist spirituality and ministry. It provides background on the Passionist religious community founded in 1741, their focus on remembering the Passion of Jesus Christ through prayer and service. It explains how Passionist spirituality involves contemplating Christ's suffering to cultivate compassion for those suffering today, and their vow to bring attention to injustices like what Jesus faced. Their ministries aim to work for justice, peace, and serve those in need according to Catholic social teaching.
The document discusses the concept of poverty and who the poor are. It defines the poor as those who are materially poor and struggle to meet basic needs. It then provides statistics on poverty levels and indicators of poverty in the Philippines, such as income levels, education, health, housing, and employment rates. It concludes by discussing attitudes towards the poor and the Church's role in promoting justice for the poor.
This document discusses the human and Christian visions of solidarity. It defines solidarity as being based on unity and fraternity among all people, grounded in equal human dignity and rights. Two popes are quoted emphasizing love and communion between all. The Christian vision is exemplified in several Bible passages about loving God and neighbor unconditionally. Effective solidarity requires addressing unjust structures and promoting human dignity, rights, justice and love for all. Concrete examples given are the work of Mother Teresa and empowerment centers. The Church has a right and duty to denounce injustices hampering human dignity. Witnessing through good works and proclaiming justice are emphasized as how the Church commits to solidarity, especially with the poor.
Similar to Caring as part of the social responsibilities of the church (20)
The pervasiveness of Lying in today's World.pptxniwres
In our interconnected world, lies weave through the fabric of society like hidden threads. We encounter them in politics, media, personal relationships, and even within ourselves. The prevalence of deception raises profound questions about truth, trust, and the human condition.
Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
Astronism, Cosmism and Cosmodeism: the space religions espousing the doctrine...Cometan
This lecture created by Brandon Taylorian (aka Cometan) specially for the CESNUR Conference held Bordeaux in June 2024 provides a brief introduction to the legacy of religious and philosophical thought that Astronism emerges from, namely the discourse on transcension started assuredly by the Cosmists in Russia in the mid-to-late nineteenth century and then carried on and developed by Mordecai Nessyahu in Cosmodeism in the twentieth century. Cometan also then provides some detail on his story in founding Astronism in the early twenty-first century from 2013 along with details on the central Astronist doctrine of transcension. Finally, the lecture concludes with some contributions made by space religions and space philosophy and their influences on various cultural facets in art, literature and film.
Introduction
Mantra Yoga is an exact science. "Mananat trayate iti mantrah- by the Manana (constant thinking or recollection) of which one is protected or is released from the round of births and deaths, is Mantra." That is called Mantra by the meditation (Manana) on which the Jiva or the individual soul attains freedom from sin, enjoyment in heaven and final liberation, and by the aid of which it attains in full the fourfold fruit (Chaturvarga), i.e., Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. A Mantra is so called because it is achieved by the mental process.
Lição 12: João 15 a 17 – O Espírito Santo e a Oração Sacerdotal | 2° Trimestr...OmarBarrezueta1
Esta lição é uma oportunidade para discutirmos um assunto multo mal interpretado no contexto cristão, que é o fato de algumas pessoas pensarem que o conhecer Jesus é ter a nossa vida mudada em todas as áreas, como se Deus tivesse o dever de transportar-nos deste mundo para um outro mundo onde muitas coisas maravilhosas que desejamos seriam reais. No entanto, a nossa fé não nos tira do mundo após nos convertermos; ao invés disso, permanecemos vivendo sob as mesmas circunstâncias. O propósito de Deus não é nos tirar do mundo, mas nos livrar das ações do maligno (Jo 17.15), Sendo assim, a vida eterna não significa estar fora da realidade deste mundo, mas conhecer o único Deus verdadeiro (Jo 17.3).
New York City love spells in Dallas, TX.spellshealer8
Get ex back TX (+256) 789- 682- 081 Love spells in Houston, TX Astrologer Psychic near me to remove negative energy. Protection spells by Spell Caster | Love Spells | Black Magic | the witchcraft. Black magic expert and voodoo love spells that work overnight to retrieve that love | Best Psychic in Houston with powerful voodoo to renew your relationship & make your relationship stronger. love spells to bring back the feelings of love for ex-lovers.
https://spellshealer8.wixsite.com/binding-powerful-los
Increase the intimacy, affection & love between you and your lover using voodoo relationship love spells in USA. money spells, easy love spells with just words, think of me spell, powerful love spell, spells of love, spells that work, love potion to attract a man, easy love spells with just words, pink candle prayer, white magic spells, call me spell, manifestation spell, gay love spells, Commitment spells, business spells and, how to bring back lost love in a relationship, Witchcraft love spells that work immediately to increase love & intimacy in your relationship. Attraction love spells to attract someone, stop a divorce, prevent a breakup & get your ex back.
REUNITE WITH AN EX LOVER IN 72 HOURS
If your lover is gone, don't be desperate anymore! You are a few clicks away from a prompt resolution of your problem: We will our spiritual powers to bring him/her back. This service has been the reason of so many happy endings that you should consider it as a serious solution. Let us show you our method with zero chances of rejection. Don't waste your precious time; get your lover back NOW!
MAKE HIM/HER LOVE ME
You love someone but this isn't mutual? Don't wait for the deluge and make him or her love you now. This service will create a great alchemy between this person and you. In just a few weeks, you can make the person you dream of falling in love with you. We recommend you to combine this service with a Marriage ritual if you want this person to commit you.
BREAK UP A RELATIONSHIP
The perfect service to break up a relationship you don't think legitimate. Your lover has gone with someone else? You love someone but this person is already involved in a relationship? Don't hesitate to break them up as this ritual and prayer is very powerful and will give very good results in a few weeks only.
STOP A DIVORCE NOW
Your husband or you wife is thinking about divorce but you don't want this to happen? Order this service now to reinforce the bonds of your relationship and save your marriage. This service will make him/her realize that a divorce would be a mistake and will strengthen love and passion. With permanent results, this service will guarantee a long lasting marriage and will make you happy.
FAITHFULNESS
Your partner cheats on you? This love ritual is definitely the one you need! Your lover will dream about you every night and will realize the pain you have been suffering since he/she
LOVE CHARMS
I DO ALL THE FOLLOWING SPELLS
*Binding Your
Unleash your spiritual growth journey as a truth-seeker!
Learn More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
Tracking "The Blessing" - Christianity · Spiritual Growth · Success
Do you ever feel like your Bible highlighting isn't quite enough to ignite lasting spiritual growth? Have you struggled to retain key takeaways from your Bible study sessions?
Discover how living in 4D can transform your highlighting into a strategic tool for spiritual development.
Learn More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
In this video, you'll gain insights on:
How highlighting key verses and themes can enhance memory and retention of Scripture (we see a few key ones, here!)
Studies have shown that highlighting can significantly improve information recall. Highlighting key points visually reinforces them in your mind, leading to better long-term memory.
How to personalize your Bible study through strategic highlighting. Don't just highlight everything!
This video will teach you how to strategically highlight based on what resonates with you, focusing on central themes, recurring ideas, or connections between different passages.
Watch More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
How connecting highlighted passages can reveal deeper biblical truths. By highlighting these connections, you can see the bigger picture and uncover the underlying messages within Scripture.
By the end of this video, you'll be equipped to unlock the hidden potential within your highlighted Bible and embark on a transformative spiritual growth journey! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more inspiring content on deepening your faith.
Note: For Christians seeking to enrich their Bible study and deepen their faith, as well as any other spiritual seeker of truth and growth.
Learn More:
👉https://tkg.tf/4D
Tales of This and Another Life - Chapters.pdfMashaL38
This book is one of the best of the translated ones, for it has a warning character for all those who find themselves in the experience of material life. Irmão X provides a shrewd way of describing the subtleties and weaknesses that can jeopardize our intentions, making us more attentive and vigilant by providing us with his wise pages, reminding us between the lines of the Master's words: "Pray and watch."
The Book of Revelation, filled with symbolic and apocalyptic imagery, presents one of its most striking visions in Revelation 9:3-12—the locust army. Understanding the significance of this locust army provides insight into the broader themes of divine judgment, protection, and the ultimate triumph of God’s will as depicted in Revelation.
Powerful Magic Rings+27604255576 for Money Fame Job Promotions Gambling in So...MalikAliMohamad1
›:› Powerful Magic Rings+27604255576 for Money Fame Job Promotions Gambling in South Africa Botswana, Zimbabwe, Jordan,Kuwait,Turkey,Belgium,Saudi Arabia, Australia, Malaysia Limpopo polokwane nambia Johannesburg,Lebanon, zambia,USA,kenya,california, dallas, England,German,spain, Jamaica,St,Lucia, Brasil,Germany ,Austria, Vancouver, Denmark,Hongkong,China,,pretoria, Durban, Australia, Zimbabwe,Wales,France,Harare,Cairo, philippines,china, Norway,Sweden,Cameroon,Botswana ,Namibia, Tanzania,Northerncape,Newyork,limpopo,london, venezuela,Chile,Sweden, Kenya, Denmark, Rwanda, Oman, Qatar,Dubai,Poland,Lesotho,Canada, United Kingdom…
nambia Botswana
Powerful Magic Rings++27604255576 Money ~Fame~ Job Promotions~ Gambling in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Jordan,Kuwait,Turkey,Belgium,Saudi Arabia, Australia, Malaysia , Johannesburg,Lebanon, zambia,USA,kenya,california, dallas, England,German,spain, Jamaica,St,Lucia, Brasil,Germany ,Austria, Vancouver, Denmark,Hongkong,China,,pretoria, Durban, Australia,+27604255576 Zimbabwe,Wales,France,Harare,Cairo, philippines,china, Norway,Sweden,Cameroon,Botswana ,Namibia, Tanzania,Northerncape,Newyork,limpopo,london, venezuela,Chile,Sweden, Kenya, Denmark, Rwanda, Oman, Qatar,Dubai,Poland,Lesotho,Canada, United Kingdom…+27604255576
This Mystic Ring is very strong and powerful and can change the life of the wearer. This Ring is spiritually prepared and there are lots of rituals and ceremonies done on the ring and then it is prepared, Again this ring is very safe and will always give lots of success and happiness to the wearer. It has lots of positive energies in it so that it can destroy any type of Black Magic, Evil Eye, Negative Energy, Hex or Curse that is on you. If can destroy all your enemies and also punish them. Also on wearing the ring it will make your subconscious mind power very strong and powerful so that you will also have financial gains, your money problems will be over and also you will be successful in the fields of Lottery and Gambling. It will protect you from any type of unknown accidents and evil. Also this ring will make your love stars very strong and powerful so that you will attract opposite sex, and also will get any person you desire.
+27604255576
+27604255576 This powerful ring will warn you in your dreams if any thing good or bad is going to happen so that you will always be safe and protected from unknown dangers coming to you. So in all you will have money, fame, love and every thing that you may desire. Again it is difficult to explain the wonders of this ring unless you will try your self.
+27604255576
Call/whatsapp: +27604255576
Lucid Dreaming: Understanding the Risks and Benefits
The ability to control one's dreams or for the dreamer to be aware that he or she is dreaming. This process, called lucid dreaming, has some potential risks as well as many fascinating benefits. However, many people are hesitant to try it initially for fear of the potential dangers. This article aims to clarify these concerns by exploring both the risks and benefits of lucid dreaming.
The Benefits of Lucid Dreaming
Lucid dreaming allows a person to take control of their dream world, helping them overcome their fears and eliminate nightmares. This technique is particularly useful for mental health. By taking control of their dreams, individuals can face challenging scenarios in a controlled environment, which can help reduce anxiety and increase self-confidence.
Addressing Common Concerns
Physical Harm in Dreams Lucid dreaming is fundamentally safe. In a lucid dream, everything is a creation of your mind. Therefore, nothing in the dream can physically harm you. Despite the vividness and realness of the dream experience, it remains entirely within your mental landscape, posing no physical danger.
Mental Health Risks Concerns about developing PTSD or other mental illnesses from lucid dreaming are unfounded. As soon as you wake up, it's clear that the events experienced in the dream were not real. On the contrary, lucid dreaming is often seen as a therapeutic tool for conditions like PTSD, as it allows individuals to reframe and manage their thoughts.
Potential Risks of Lucid Dreaming
While generally safe, lucid dreaming does come with a few risks as well:
Mixing Dream Memories with Reality Long-term lucid dreamers might occasionally confuse dream memories with real ones, creating false memories. This issue is rare and preventable by maintaining a dream journal and avoiding lucid dreaming about real-life people or places too frequently.
Escapism Using lucid dreaming to escape reality can be problematic if it interferes with your daily life. While it is sometimes beneficial to escape and relieve the stress of reality, relying on lucid dreaming for happiness can hinder personal growth and productivity.
Feeling Tired After Lucid Dreaming Some people report feeling tired after lucid dreaming. This tiredness is not due to the dreams themselves but often results from not getting enough sleep or using techniques that disrupt sleep patterns. Taking breaks and ensuring adequate sleep can prevent this.
Mental Exhaustion Lucid dreaming can be mentally taxing if practiced excessively without breaks. It’s important to balance lucid dreaming with regular sleep to avoid mental fatigue.
Lucid dreaming is safe and beneficial if done with caution. It has many benefits, such as overcoming fear and improving mental health, and minimal risks. There are many resources and tutorials available for those interested in trying it.
2nd issue of Volume 15. A magazine in urdu language mainly based on spiritual treatment and learning. Many topics on ISLAM, SUFISM, SOCIAL PROBLEMS, SELF HELP, PSYCHOLOGY, HEALTH, SPIRITUAL TREATMENT, Ruqya etc.A very useful magazine for everyone.
Lesson 12 - The Blessed Hope: The Mark of the Christian.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 12 - The Blessed Hope: The Mark of the Christian
SBS – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
2. 2
INTRODUCTION
Longman’s English Dictionary defines care as “the process of looking after someone or
something that needs attention’; as ‘responsibility’ for [that someone or something].” Caring can
therefore be defined as showing concern, being compassionate or showing concern for others.1
It suggests human dispositions of being kind, thoughtful, helpful, considerate, compassionate,
concerned, loving, affectionate, sensitive and attentive. Essentially, caring means to have regard
for, to attend to, to have an interest in, to have concern for someone or something. Caring with
reference to the church perhaps may be viewed as an understanding of how the church has regard
for, attends to, has an interest in or shows concern for someone or something. The element of
responsibility, as indicated in Longman’s definition, is significant, because caring comes with
responsibility. That the object of caring is human makes the responsibility of social value.
Therefore caring is the basis for social responsibility. However, it is possible to be engaged in
social responsibility without caring, but it is not possible to care without being socially
responsible.
Social responsibility is an ethical theory that an entity, be it an organization or individual, has an
obligation to act to benefit society at large. Social responsibility is a duty every individual has to
perform so as to maintain a balance between the economy and the ecosystems.2
The functions of
social responsibility must be directed at advancing social goals, in improving the quality of lives
of the less privileged (those below the social equilibrium), and the welfare of the society and
environment.
CHRISTIAN SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
People are said to have a sense of social responsibility if there is awareness, a consciousness, of
the role which they should be playing in the social order in which they are living. The church
does not exist in a vacuum; it is an integral part of the social order. To this extent, the church
should be perceived as functional and relevant, in view of its place in the social order. In recent
times, secular entities have been seen to display a stronger sense of social responsibility than
those of the household of faith. While corporate organizations subscribe to the function of social
1
Microsoft Encarta, Microsoft Corporation, 1993-2008.
2
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_responsibility , accessed 1/52014
3. 3
responsibility as a code of business principle, Christian social responsibility is an extension of
the church’s mandate Missio Dei. It is undergirded by Christian theology and not a commercial
policy towards achieving an economic agenda.
BASIC SUPPOSITIONS FOR CARING
Caring as part of the social responsibilities of the church rests on a number of basic suppositions
or convictions.
1. The Christian God is understood as a caring God. The proof is in God's providential care
of the world and his creation. God created the earth with man in mind. Man was created
with everything he needs readymade. Even after man’s fall, which ushered in sin, God's
providential grace was still sufficient to hold the effects of sin at bay. When it comes to
providential care, God does not discriminate. He extends this form of common grace to
all of mankind. No one is excluded whether good or bad, worthy or unworthy, saved or
unsaved. The notion of God's providential care of his creation can be seen throughout the
Bible.
2. Caring is an expression of God’s love. Love is probably the most common way of
understanding the experience of God, expressed ultimately in the Incarnation and the life,
ministry and death of Jesus. (John 3:16). The whole plan and package of redemption
interpret God’s care and loving purpose for the world and for creation.
3. Jesus as a model of caring. Jesus demonstrates expressly the caring, loving
compassionate nature of the Godhead. This is evident in his Incarnation (Phil. 2:6-8),
healing work, his concern for those on the margins of society, his sensitivity to the needs
and situation of women and the poor, and his openness to those deemed to be sinners or
outcasts. Unlike the Aaronic high priest, Jesus empathizes with the frailty and foibles of
those whose cause he advocates (Heb. 4:15). The book of Acts 10:31 summarily
describes the caring disposition of the Messiah.
4. The Missio Dei finds expression in a caring disposition. The church as the body of Christ
carries on the incarnational work of Christ in its mandate to reach the world and reconcile
4. 4
mankind to God. It could be said that the ministry of reconciliation of the church is
embedded in the ministry of caring. Thus the church is called to serve with compassion in
the way Christ did, where the qualities of the compassionate church include an
involvement in the world and its problems.
NEW TESTAMENT TEACHING ON CARING
1. Believers should love all men, even those who choose to be enemies. God sends good
blessings (sunshine and rain) on the evil (Mt. 5:43-48). He provides rain and fruitful
seasons even upon those who have rejected Him (Acts 14:17).
2. Judgment will be on the basis of moral treatment of the needy, etc. (Mt. 25:35-40).
In the great teaching on the judgment, Jesus shows that men will be judged on the
basis of their treatment of the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick, and
the imprisoned. It is commonplace to put great emphasis on doctrinal purity and
certainty. It is right to do so. But, this must not be done to the neglect of showing
human compassion.
3. Jesus commended the Samaritan who took care of the needs of the man who fell
among robbers (Lk. 10:30-36).
4. Barnabas sold a tract of land in order to assist the needy at Jerusalem (Acts 4:36-37).
5. Dorcas abounded in “deeds of kindness and charity, which she continually did” (Acts
9:36, 39).
6. Paul showed by example that Christians should work hard and help the weak. He
quotes Jesus as saying “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:34-35).
7. The household of Stephanas are commended because “they have devoted themselves
for ministry to the saints.” Others are urged to help in such work (1 Cor. 16:15-16).
8. Christians are admonished to do good to all men, and especially to those who are of
the household of the faith (Gal. 6:10).
9. The Christian is to labor in order to be able to share with those who have need (Eph.
4:28).
10. The Christian is to assist dependent widows (1 Tim.. 5:16).
11. Christians are to do good, be rich in good works, generous, ready to share (1 Tim.
6:18).
12. Pure religion includes visiting orphans and widows in their distress (Jas. 1:26-27).
5. 5
13. The faith is dead that fails to provide the needy with basic necessities (Jas. 2:15-18).
14. Christians must love in deed and truth, being willing to assist those in need with this
world’s goods (1 Jn. (1 Jn.3:17-18).
CHURCH SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN HISTORY
According to Pittman & Rene3
long before the birth of the profession of social work, the Church,
as a living model of Christ, concerned itself with meeting the needs of hurting, oppressed and
marginalized people. The historical involvement of the Church in social ministries was prior to
the Reformation4
. In the first three centuries of the Christian era, Christians amazed the world
around them with the extent to which they ministered to the needs of others, especially those
who had no one else to care for them. The early Church took on the major task of caring for
abandoned and orphaned children who had been left on waste heaps to die, taking them into their
own homes or creating fondling homes for nurturing these little ones, left abandoned. They
sought to ransom slaves, some even by voluntarily placing themselves in bondage. Some others
advocated for the abolition of slave trade5
. New converts who had to leave “debased”
occupations to join the fellowship (e.g. gladiators, actors, prostitutes) were given work by rich
Church members or were provided support from a communal6
.
Following the Biblical mandate, Christians have historically created institutions to meet human
needs. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, Church groups formed voluntary
societies, often as the result of spiritual awakenings that were commissioned to meet the social
needs of those in their communities. During this time, and into the twentieth century, Bible
believing denominations formed “helping societies” or agencies to formalize their commitment
to social action and meet the needs of the “least of these.” Problems of hunger, slum life,
3
Sharon Pittman and René Drumm, “The biblically grounded framework for social work” 4th Symposium
on the Bible and Adventist Scholarship, Riviera Maya, Estado Quintana Roo, Mexico, (March 16-22, 2008) 4
4
E. G. Hinson, “The historical involvement of the Church in social ministries and social action”.
(1988).233-241.
5
William Wilberforce led the parliamentary campaign against the British slave trade for twenty-six years
along with Thomas Clarkson, including Granville Sharp, Hannah More and Charles Middleton, (all Christian
activists) until the passage of the Slave Trade Act of 1807.
6
Hinson
6. 6
unemployment, mental and physical illness, and disabilities, as well as prison reform and caring
for widows and orphans became efforts tackled by Victorian women eager to live out their
personal faith in action7
.
Traditional Protestant thought held that the salvation of the individual would lead to social
improvement, and so social improvement was never considered an end in itself. This social
activity of the Church at this period was perhaps what gave rise to the Social Gospel. The ideas
of the Social Gospel were different. Adherents came to believe that many individuals were a
product of their hostile environments and could only leave sinful lifestyles and habits if they
were extracted from the social and economic challenges that had driven them into sin in the first
place. Conversion and life in the Church, therefore, had to offer something better than sin and
addictive habits, as well as alleviate the suffering that drove men and women to such despair. As
a result of this reasoning, individual salvation was important but considered secondary to social
reform, which would convert multitudes into God’s kingdom. Salvation of the individual, then,
stood as an important byproduct of working for a literal kingdom of God on earth. Working for
social improvement, the Kingdom of God on earth, then, was the thrust of the Social Gospel
movement8
.
Biblical fundamentalism was another parallel theological framework promoted by the turn-of-
the-century Churches that challenged the Social Gospel movement. Fundamentalism arose from
a radically different impulse than the Social Gospel. Early in the 20th Century certain prominent
Christians began to see the Bible as a historical text rather than a revealed truth. The Bible,
according to these so-called "higher critics," had evolved over time and simply reflected the
views of the men who wrote it. Fundamentalism rose within the Church to combat this modern
view of the Bible. The names came from a series of pamphlets called "The Fundamentals,"
published in 1912, which outlined the bedrock truths that all Christians should believe. Out of
these movements the church crafted formal outreach efforts desired to fulfill the mandate for
7
T. Smith, Revivalism and social reform: American Protestantism on the eve of the Civil War. Gloucester,
MA. (1976)27
8
S. Ahlstrom Theology in America: The major Protestant voices from Puritanism to neo-orthodoxy.
Indianapolis (1967), In: Bobbs-Merrill.
7. 7
helping and loving one’s neighbor. Social work was one of those professions born in the Church.
The Church became the “mother of social work”9
.
THE CULTURAL MANDATE
Recently evangelicals have turned to what they call the “Cultural Mandate” to provide a biblical
base for social action. The idea is that the Christ has actually given the church two overall and
interrelated callings: The Great Commission (Matt 28:19-20) in which believers are to go into
the whole world and make disciples for Christ, and the Cultural Mandate in which the church is
authorized to be directly involved in physical and social issues related to the planet. No true
evangelical questions the Great Commission, but the Cultural Mandate is not so clear. The
biblical teaching for the Cultural Mandate is drawn from Genesis 1:26, 28.
From this pre-Fall text has been developed the belief that the church retains the mandate given to
Adam in the Garden to subdue and rule over the earth. Michael Goheen and Craig Bartholomew
promote this thesis. They write10
,
If redemption is, as the Bible teaches, the restoration of the whole of creation, then our
mission is to embody this good news: every part of creational life, including the public
life of our culture, is being restored. The good news will be evident in our care for the
environment, in our approach to international relations, economic justice, business,
media, scholarship, family, journalism, industry, and law. But if redemption were merely
about an otherworldly salvation, (as, for example, Moody believed), then our mission
would be reduced to the sort of evangelism that tries to get people into heaven.
The debate of whether or not social responsibility should be part of the Church’s mandate may
yet be unabated, however, the Bible presents the life of Christ to illustrate how integral to the
preaching of the Gospel were His deeds of loving service. Deeds of love were no afterthought in
his life but were part and parcel of the proclamation of the Good News. The answer of Jesus to
John the Baptist’s profound question, “Are you He who is to come, or shall we look for
another?” is certainly relevant here. Jesus could have delivered an extended theological
discourse, quoting from Scripture, to prove the nature of His person and His mission.
9
F. E. Johnson, Protestant social work. In R.H. Kurtz (Eds.), Social year book. New York: (Russell Sage
Foundation.1941), p. 404
10
Michael W. Goheen and Craig G. Bartholomew, Living at the Crossroads, (Grand Rapids, Baker
Academic, 2008), p. 66.
8. 8
Rather, as recorded in Luke 7:18-23, Jesus did not give an immediate answer. It is recorded: “In
that hour, He cured many of diseases and plagues and evil spirits and on many that were blind
He bestowed sight.” Essentially, this is His message to John, this is the Good News, this is the
manifestation of love and power of God in the dramatic terms of meeting human needs. “Go and
tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are
cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them.”
CONCLUSION
Caring is an outgrowth of love. The importance of love in social responsibility cannot be
overemphasized. This is frequently enjoined in the New Testament. Christians are to love one
another. Such a conception does not come within the normal relationships within a society. It is
clearly lacking in corporate relations. The Church must be the defining change in bringing some
influence to bear on a hurting world by the power of love. Love is a pervasive force which has
supplied the motive for many far-reaching social reforms, ringing out names like Elizabeth Fry,
William Wilberforce, Mary Slessor etc. Such love produces caring acts of service to mankind.
And because service to others occupies an important place in the Christian church, the concept of
service to the wider community comes naturally. The Church sees the challenge of bearing the
burdens of others, and must seriously consider what action it should take. Social responsibility
may not be the Gospel, but it flows naturally from it.
9. 9
BIBLOGRAPHY
Ahlstrom, S. Theology in America: The major Protestant voices from Puritanism to neo-
orthodoxy. Indianapolis (1967), In: Bobbs-Merrill.
Goheen, Michael W. and Bartholomew, Craig G., Living at the Crossroads, (Grand Rapids,
Baker Academic, 2008)
Hinson, E. G., “The historical involvement of the Church in social ministries and social
action”. (1988).
Johnson, F. E., Protestant social work. In R.H. Kurtz (Eds.), Social year book. New York:
(Russell Sage Foundation.1941)
Pittman, Sharon and Drumm, René, “The biblically grounded framework for social work”
4th Symposium on the Bible and Adventist Scholarship, (Riviera Maya, Estado Quintana
Roo, Mexico, March 16-22, 2008)
Smith ,T., Revivalism and social reform: American Protestantism on the eve of the Civil
War. Gloucester, MA. 1976)
Microsoft Encarta, Microsoft Corporation, 1993-2008
Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social responsibility