Reach out to the Poor
The poor are among us, in close proximity to our congregations,
and in some instances members of our congregations. Some lack
employment and a place to live. Some live on welfare or on
unemployment benefits. Others are the working poor, those people
who are employed but don't earn enough to meet all the expenses
of living.
The efforts of many congregations to help the poor have focused
on supporting the efforts of separate agencies or inner-city
missions, such as The Salvation Army. Most churches, however, do
not particularly think about incorporating the poor into
membership in their congregations. We are more often focused on
ministries to the poor than with the poor.
- Always follow-up when people break patterns of regular
attendance at church. That can be a warning sign for a broad
range of problems, including economic difficulties. The
earlier the church knows something is wrong, the sooner it
can provide effective help.
- When people connected with your church have financial
problems, don't assume that public and private agencies will
take care of the problem. There are gaps in the social
services available. In the church, we should be prepared to
do all that we can to help people achieve economic
independence and meaningful lives. Establish emergency food
pantries and expense funds, as well as encouraging individual
efforts of members.
- When ministering to the poor outside the congregation, make a
special effort to treat people with dignity and respect.
Those who are poor can quickly lose their self-respect in a
society that seems to equate human worth with economic worth.
- Recognize that the poor are not fundamentally different than
the rest of us. Those who are poor do not want to be poor and
do not want to be dependent on others. They crave friendship,
love, reasonable comfort in their physical surroundings,
meaningful work, and opportunities to help other people.
- Be open to opportunities to share your faith and invite them
to become involved in the life of the church. Non-members are
not likely to attend church unless invited.
- Reflect on your church's attitude on personal appearance. The
poor cannot afford expensive clothes. Consider their feelings
when they enter your building. Encourage members to dress in
less formal or costly clothing.
- Consider providing more than material assistance to those who
are poor. Use mentors to build relationships with the poor
without condescension or judgment. They can quietly arrange
for donations of clothing or furniture. They may also help in
securing employment, or give advice on financial management,
or resume preparation.
- See the poor as partners in ministry. Include their insight
when planning outreach programs to the poor. Be alert for
their substantial spiritual gifts.
From Pastor...Be Encouraged! by C. Neil Strait.
Copyright (c) 1996 by Beacon Hill Press of Kansas
City, Mo. Used with permission. To order copies call:
1-800-877-0700.