Church and poverty in South Africa : historical analysis and missional ecclesiology
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Date
Authors
Prinsloo, Christoffel B.
Dreyer, Willem Akkerhuys (Wim)
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
AOSIS
Abstract
Poverty remains a critical socio-economic challenge in South Africa, deeply rooted in the
country’s history of colonialism and apartheid. This article examines the multifaceted role of
churches in poverty alleviation efforts in South Africa, spanning both historical and
contemporary contexts. Through analysis of historical records and contemporary literature, it
argues that while churches have significantly addressed poverty, a more comprehensive and
transformative approach is needed. The study proposes adopting a missional ecclesiology
framework to enhance the effectiveness of church-led poverty alleviation initiatives, offering
insights into how churches can engage more deeply and sustainably in the fight against poverty.
CONTRIBUTION: This research contributes to existing scholarship by: (1) Providing a
comprehensive historical analysis of church involvement in poverty alleviation in South
Africa. (2) Critically examining challenges and opportunities in contemporary church-led
poverty alleviation efforts. (3) Proposing missional ecclesiology as a framework for enhancing
church-based poverty alleviation initiatives. (4) Offering practical recommendations for
churches to address poverty within South Africa’s unique socio-economic context.
Description
DATA AVAILABITY STATEMENT: This study is based on an analysis of publicly available
literature and data. No new data were created or analysed in
this study. The articles and sources used in this review are
listed in the references section. Any additional information
or clarification regarding the data used in this study is
available from the corresponding author, C.P.B., upon
reasonable request.
Keywords
Poverty alleviation, Church, Missional ecclesiology, Social justice, Historical analysis, Contemporary challenges, Transformative approach, SDG-01: No poverty, South Africa (SA)
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG-01:No poverty
Citation
Prinsloo, C.B. & Dreyer, W.A.,
2024, ‘Church and poverty
in South Africa: Historical
analysis and missional
ecclesiology’, HTS Teologiese
Studies/Theological Studies
80(1), a10213. https://doi.org/10.4102/hts.v80i1.10213.