How do Justice and Faith Intersect?

“In Christ’s name, the deacons relieve victims of injustice.”  This is the description that many of us hear each spring in the CRC ordination form as new men and women transition into diaconal work.

“Injustice” is a word that, for many of us, brings to mind a variety of images ranging from the government and politics to retribution, the poor and justice organizations.  So what do members of the CRC think about justice? And how do they relate it to their faith? Recently results were released from a research study to explore the relationship of justice and faith. This study was carried out collaboratively by the CRC, the Institute for Christian Studies and the Centre for Community Based Research.

More than 85% of those surveyed said that they “strongly” or “somewhat agree” that “being a Christian requires me to pursue justice.”  However, the research study brought into evidence differing understandings of justice and emphases. It also spoke to various ways that congregations may be mobilized in this area.  It may mean creating a clearer Biblical vision for justice, or seeking opportunities to challenge injustice, or raising awareness of unjust circumstances locally and globally.

Have a look at the results:

• Key Informant report (based on 12 interviews with CRC leaders)
• Survey report

Read the report and consider the following possibilities: 

• Encourage your church to tithe their sermons/small group studies to include the theme of justice.
• Pray for hope-filled restoration of unjust circumstances around the globe.
• Discern how you may contribute to the well-being of neighbours in your local community who experience injustice.

Next year, there will be opportunities for interaction and dialogue around the findings of the research projects in different communities and forums across Canada.  Keep an eye out for more information.

In the meantime, let us know how you have come to be encouraged and empowered for justice as an integral part of your church’s faith journey.

(by Katie Karsten, Justice Mobilizer, Diaconal Ministries Canada)