Role Of The Church In The Wider World

Question 1

Christian aid

Answer 1

Christian Aid is a charity which mainly supports people practically, often in less economically developed countries, aiming to end poverty and aid those who are suffering. They do this because of Christian teaching, and out of compassion. Practical support they may provide includes food, clothing, shelter and healthcare.

Question 2

Quote

Answer 2

whoever sows generously will also reap generously - Corinthians

Question 3

Christians being persecuted for their faith

Answer 3

Christians may be legally forbidden from worshipping in public or from practising their faith, e.g. North Korea restricts the practice of Christianity. Terrorist groups may also drive Christians from their homes, attack or kill them, e.g. Boko Haram in Nigeria.

Question 4

The worldwide church

Answer 4

may seek to support persecuted Christians by providing practical support for those displaced; by trying to work to end persecution; by praying for those persecuted; and by providing means for them to practise their faith, e.g. providing Bibles where these are forbidden.

Question 5

The world council of churches

Answer 5

ecumenical organisation which aims to help different denominations to work together. It accepts different denominations, but wants them to heal any bad feelings and reconcile with each to work together as one body of Christians. The Catholic Church is not a member.

Question 6

Ecumenical

Answer 6

refers to anything where different churches or church denominations work together. Ecumenism is important in helping Christians stay united as followers of Jesus and to work together to achieve more.

Question 7

Church

Answer 7

refer to all Christians spiritually; to all Christians alive in the world; to different denominations of Christians; to a building where Christians worship; and to the community which meets in a particular church building.

Question 8

Taizé

Answer 8

ecumenical monastic community where members worship and study together. Iona is also an ecumenical community and both of these communities are pilgrimage sites where Christians from different denominations can worship and work together.

Question 9

Corrymeela and the ‘churches together’ movement

Answer 9

ecumenical organisations which work with many Christians, e.g. through running activities and by leading talks.