This thesis analyses the implementation of self-help groups in Christian churches as an adversity-defying option for community service and missionary work within the horizon of the Kingdom of God. After an introductory chapter, chapter... more
This thesis analyses the implementation of self-help groups in Christian churches as an adversity-defying option for community service and missionary work within the horizon of the Kingdom of God.
After an introductory chapter, chapter two presents a study of current social conditions emphasizes the importance of self-help groups in light of the predicament of social changes, the expiring social welfare state, and the impending lack of financing in the public health sector. The focus lies on the methods, effectiveness and achievements of self-help groups in terms of health and social networking.
Chapter three is dealing with community service and missionary work in Christian churches in need of being theologically grounded in the theology of the Kingdom of God. The underlying concept of this theology is the inseparability of the two constituents, “missio dei” and “diakonia” of the Christian identity. In the church the individual can experience the though imperfect, but still real healing effect of the sovereignty of God, which becomes visible in the missional way of life beyond the church boundaries and allows for holistic convalescence.
On the basis of this theological and social groundwork, the author's thesis is then discussed in chapter four. If initiated and supported by a church that values community service and missionary work, self-help groups can effectively help people with difficult living conditions who are not part of the congregation. Furthermore, the participation of affected Christians make genuine conversation about the personal faith within the group possible and can thus reduce the participants' reservation with respect to faith and the Christian church. Resources and limitations in the implementation of self-help groups in Christian churches as well as the practical realisation are discussed.
Chapter five presents the author's findings which confirm his thesis and applies the insights gained to the self-initiated SHG “Gelegenheit” (Opportunity). In a concluding section the thesis is summarized and challenges facing the author, the SHG “Gelegenheit” and the church in light of the findings are stated.
After an introductory chapter, chapter two presents a study of current social conditions emphasizes the importance of self-help groups in light of the predicament of social changes, the expiring social welfare state, and the impending lack of financing in the public health sector. The focus lies on the methods, effectiveness and achievements of self-help groups in terms of health and social networking.
Chapter three is dealing with community service and missionary work in Christian churches in need of being theologically grounded in the theology of the Kingdom of God. The underlying concept of this theology is the inseparability of the two constituents, “missio dei” and “diakonia” of the Christian identity. In the church the individual can experience the though imperfect, but still real healing effect of the sovereignty of God, which becomes visible in the missional way of life beyond the church boundaries and allows for holistic convalescence.
On the basis of this theological and social groundwork, the author's thesis is then discussed in chapter four. If initiated and supported by a church that values community service and missionary work, self-help groups can effectively help people with difficult living conditions who are not part of the congregation. Furthermore, the participation of affected Christians make genuine conversation about the personal faith within the group possible and can thus reduce the participants' reservation with respect to faith and the Christian church. Resources and limitations in the implementation of self-help groups in Christian churches as well as the practical realisation are discussed.
Chapter five presents the author's findings which confirm his thesis and applies the insights gained to the self-initiated SHG “Gelegenheit” (Opportunity). In a concluding section the thesis is summarized and challenges facing the author, the SHG “Gelegenheit” and the church in light of the findings are stated.
