The term “Social Justice” has its roots in Catholic social teaching, which is all about the sanctity of human life. In that case maybe social justice is a "conservative" term. Christians who like social justice also like Micah 6:8, do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God.
Begin the planning of a mission trip with social justice questions in mind. That will facilitate planing parts of the trip where students can learn more about the history of the community, the issues members express they are facing, what they are doing about it, and where they are running into walls.
The book, "When Helping Hurts," is a great resource for shaping discussions about systemic and individual causes of poverty.
"Social Justice Handbook," by Mae Elise Cannon, has descriptions of dozens of social justice issues and how the church can get involved.
handsformdgs.org is one of the CRC's social justice campaigns and a great way to introduce youth to a variety of issues.
Keep the initiative rooted in what the Bible says about justice and in real situations that are being faced by real people who want you to join with them in their efforts.
I agree relationships are critical. Especially when they extend to the level of recognizing gifts in one another and even confession, forgiveness and reconciliation. It is important to consider if we are doing what we can to offer everything in our power within these mutual relationships.
Here is another example of helping in holistic way: Many who are working in one on one relationships with people who are at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking spend a great amount of energy speaking to the governments of their countries. Governments who often turn a blind eye to this kind of activity. They also work to get permission from the government to provide preventive education in schools. They spend time raising funds to support themselves and pay for the resources to keep their education, discipleship and advocacy ministries going. As simple servants of a greater master they pray and they call on others to pray. They see the impact their work is making and train other church groups to join with them and multiply their cause.
What I was picking up on is that it is 'all relational,' if by 'all relational,' we are referring to the kind of friendships where we truly help each other grow and flourish. These are relationships that are sustained over a long period of time, that include seeing value in each other and that give opportunities to help each other grow. In the case of injustice these relationships also include speaking out and seeking change on behalf of the friend who is oppressed.
While we have this conversation going I would love to hear more of your thoughts about people feeling like they don't matter to others or themselves.
Posted in: Seek Justice, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly...in Youth Group
The term “Social Justice” has its roots in Catholic social teaching, which is all about the sanctity of human life. In that case maybe social justice is a "conservative" term. Christians who like social justice also like Micah 6:8, do justice, love mercy, walk humbly with God.
Posted in: Seek Justice, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly...in Youth Group
Begin the planning of a mission trip with social justice questions in mind. That will facilitate planing parts of the trip where students can learn more about the history of the community, the issues members express they are facing, what they are doing about it, and where they are running into walls.
The book, "When Helping Hurts," is a great resource for shaping discussions about systemic and individual causes of poverty.
"Social Justice Handbook," by Mae Elise Cannon, has descriptions of dozens of social justice issues and how the church can get involved.
handsformdgs.org is one of the CRC's social justice campaigns and a great way to introduce youth to a variety of issues.
Keep the initiative rooted in what the Bible says about justice and in real situations that are being faced by real people who want you to join with them in their efforts.
Can't wait to hear more suggestions!
Posted in: Holistic Helping: How Do I Make It Right?
Ken,
I agree relationships are critical. Especially when they extend to the level of recognizing gifts in one another and even confession, forgiveness and reconciliation. It is important to consider if we are doing what we can to offer everything in our power within these mutual relationships.
Here is another example of helping in holistic way: Many who are working in one on one relationships with people who are at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking spend a great amount of energy speaking to the governments of their countries. Governments who often turn a blind eye to this kind of activity. They also work to get permission from the government to provide preventive education in schools. They spend time raising funds to support themselves and pay for the resources to keep their education, discipleship and advocacy ministries going. As simple servants of a greater master they pray and they call on others to pray. They see the impact their work is making and train other church groups to join with them and multiply their cause.
Posted in: Holistic Helping: How Do I Make It Right?
Ken,
Thanks for the clarification question.
What I was picking up on is that it is 'all relational,' if by 'all relational,' we are referring to the kind of friendships where we truly help each other grow and flourish. These are relationships that are sustained over a long period of time, that include seeing value in each other and that give opportunities to help each other grow. In the case of injustice these relationships also include speaking out and seeking change on behalf of the friend who is oppressed.
While we have this conversation going I would love to hear more of your thoughts about people feeling like they don't matter to others or themselves.