Wealth and Poverty

Is it ok to be rich if…

Yes

No

use it wisely/for stewardship

  • like Jesus

greedy

money used morally/help poor

money used not morally

money isn’t bad it’s all about attitude

money is a distraction from God

used to help the poor and needy

others are exploited

Causes of Poverty

  • Debt 

  • Poor education 

  • Corruption 

  • Overpopulation 

  • War 

  • Unemployment 

  • Climate Change

Effects of Poverty

  • Poor health 

  • Poor education 

  • Early mortality 

  • Malnutrition 

  • Exploitation 

  • Poor mental health 

Why should Christians be concerned?

  • Jesus came to help the poor (Universalism)

  • Stewardship

How can poverty be stopped? 

  • Immunisation 

  • Ensure fair public services, eg, health & education services 

  • Benefits

  • Ensure taxes and trade are fair 

  • Employment opportunities 

  • Fair pay 

How can Christians help stop poverty?

  • Buy FairTrade products 

  • Support government policies: protest/vote

  • Support Charities (CAFOD/Christian Aid) who: emergency aid, development, education, campaigning

  • Volunteering (VSO)

  • Prayer

 

 explain 2 contrasting views about freedom of religion

one view is that some christians believe their role and purpose is to convert everyone to the faith. These may be fundamentalists who take literally to Jesus’ instruction to baptize all people in the name of the Trinity.

Another view is that people’s religious freedom and faith should be respected. Pope Francis said that respect should be given to all who seek God sincerely. Because everyone is created in God’s image, also Jesus said “follow me” he didn’t force people to join him.