Park Christian Reformed Church and Good Samaritan Ministries join together to host award-winning, co-author, Dr. Brian Fikkert as he presents to the community from his book, When Helping Hurts – How to Alleviate Poverty without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself on August 25, 2010. The book combines sound theology, solid research, foundational principles, and proven strategies for transformational ministry among the poor, whether in the local community or abroad.
Two events are planned including a luncheon for pastors and church and ministry leaders and an evening session open to the public. Both events will be held at Park Christian Reformed Church. Registration is available at the Good Samaritan Ministries website.
Additional sponsors include Holland CRC Classis, Holland RCA Classis, Holland Deacon’s Conference, Journey ”“ Western Theological Seminary, Zeeland Classis CRC, and Zeeland Classis RCA. A free-will offering for the Chalmers Center will be taken at the evening presentation.
“In the work of helping the poor good intentions are not enough,” according to Dr. Fikkert, “Churches and individual Christians often have faulty assumptions about the causes of poverty assumptions that many times lead to ministry strategies that do considerable harm to poor people as well as to themselves.” When Helping Hurts addresses these assumptions and offers principles and strategies for poverty alleviation, including the distinction between relief, rehabilitation, and development; the difference between asset-based and needs-based strategies; the advantages of participatory over blueprint approaches.
Dr. Brian Fikkert is a Professor of Economics and the founder and Executive Director of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College. Dr. Fikkert earned a Ph.D. in economics from Yale University, specializing in international economics and economic development. He has been a consultant to the World Bank and is the author of numerous articles in both academic and popular journals.