The Role of the Church

• Functions of church:

  • Main function of church is as a place of worship
  • Used to learn more about Christianity - Bible study groups and Sunday schools
  • Rites of passages are held at church
  • Churches are open for reflection
  • Used to support the lonely and help those in need
• • "If anyone has material possessions and ignore his brother in need, how can he love God?"
• Charity:

  • Many Christians volunteer for local charities
  • Some churches run food banks
  • Some Christians volunteer as street pastors - help homeless and those at risk
• Salvation Army:

  Is a Christian charity which works by:

  • Setting up food kitchens
  • Organising toy collections at Christmas
  • Operating advice network
  • Supporting addicts
  • Running affordable nurseries
  • Providing summer camps for children
• • Jesus spent a lot of time helping those in need so Christians should do the same
  • "Love your neighbour as yourself."
• Worldwide Church:

  The three roles of the Church worldwide are:

  • Charity - helping make world better place to live
  • Mission - spreading Christian message through actions
  • Evangelism - spreading God's message for conversion
• Tearfund:

  • Charity to help end poverty and help those in disaster
  • Give help to poor through churches
  • Provide opportunities for young peoplt to train life skills
  • Raises awareness of social issues
• Persecutionof Christians:

  • Have been many martyrs - Jesus was a martyr
  • Jesus told his followers they would be persecuted
  • Christians hsve command to spread news of Jesus even if they are in danger
  • Christianity is minority in some countries, Christians treated unjustly
  • Organisations help by providing Bibles, emergency supportand campaigning for human rights