DESCRIPTION: Students will study the extent, causes, complexities, and factors
concerning homeless persons. This course will also serve as a practical guide
for service among homeless persons that is compassionate and thoroughly rooted
in the gospel. Instruction will focus on understanding the biblical basis for
community service, identifying the complex needs of homeless persons in local
communities, and starting and managing social services within local
communities. Spiritual practices such as theological reflection, lectio divina,
and incarnational solidarity will inform our lectures and discussions as we
explore options for individual and congregational involvement.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The church and the world are in need of
people who are faithfully committed to demonstrate a biblical witness to
communities troubled by the persistence of homelessness. During the past thirty
years in the United States, homelessness has increased instead of decreased in
spite of the many efforts made by public and private agencies including local
government and congregations. In addition, hundreds of thousands of households
are at risk of becoming homeless. This class will closely examine past
governmental, nonprofit, and faith-based strategies and suggest new and revised
strategies that will provide opportunities for communities and faithful leaders
to reverse the surge of homelessness.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students completing this course will (1) Cognitive: a) gain
a practical theological approach and biblical basis for ministry among the poor
and marginalized with a focus on homelessness; b) learn how congregations can
engage homelessness beyond providing emergency assistance; and c) learn how the
media influences public perception of homelessness; (2) Skills: engage in
planning and operations of social ministries and give bold and specific
suggestions about how that practical engagement should take place; and (3)
Affective: experience how compassionate social action can be combined with
spiritual, social, and economic means to alleviate the plight of homeless
persons.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet once a week for a three-hour session. Each
session will consist of lectures, discussion of readings, and on-site
experiences when applicable. A guest lecturer or panel presentation combined
with class interaction will be scheduled for part of several classes.
REQUIRED READING: