ATLANTA (ABP) — A five-lesson Bible study course, published by two Baptist groups, is intended to help churches focus on poverty and racial issues that surfaced in the rubble of Hurricane Katrina.
“Lessons on Poverty and Racism,” scheduled for release Oct. 16 for use by churches and individuals, was created through a partnership between the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and American Baptist Churches USA. The study will be available as downloadable graphic documents accessible from the Fellowship's website, www.thefellowship.info.
Churches planning to study a lesson per week are encouraged to begin Sunday, Oct. 23, so that the five-week study concludes prior to the first Sunday of Advent, Nov. 27, said Rick Bennett, the Fellowship's associate coordinator for congregational life.
Last year's Southeast Asia tsunami and the recent hurricane season have focused attention on both international and domestic poverty. Bo Prosser, the Fellowship's coordinator for congregational life, said the new Bible study series will heighten sensitivity to the poor and strengthen resolve to action.
“We have an obligation to respond to those who find themselves in dire straits. These lessons will give us biblical foundations for helping and responding to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those around us,” Prosser said.
Study topics include uncovering poverty, seeing the pain of poverty and racism, confession and repentance, and redemption and reconciliation.