Holistic Ministry Paradigm
We define
Holistic Ministry as:
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A Christ-centered approach to life (or life system) that brings about spiritual and moral change among people, the church, and society. |
We believe that Holistic Ministry responds to, and addresses, the internal and external aspects of institutions and people. It also impacts the personal and communal—or private and public—aspects of life. As a result:
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People and institutions increase their understanding of their lot in life.
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They live out their days in a way that impacts themselves, as well as those people and institutions that interact with them—both directly and indirectly.
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They become holistic, and subsequently work to improve the social fabric of society.
We also believe that Holistic Ministry is advanced through institutions and people.
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These institutions and people impact on the public dimension of their faith, while addressing policy issues in their communities.
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They employ a community developmental and personal growth strategy that produces strong, independent, and articulate servant leaders who work to strengthen the Four Pillars of Community Life™.
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Ultimately, they serve as institutional and individual models for replication and adaptation.
Upon embracing Holistic Ministry , institutions and people engage other institutions and people in community revitalization efforts.
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They connect their values and beliefs to their commitment to their communities.
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They become impassioned about serving the larger community, and about becoming better prepared to lead and serve in these efforts.
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At times, they spawn new organizations and collaborative ventures that meet the established or impending needs of communities and their members.
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These outgrowths serve to create greater access for institutions and people on local, city, national, and international levels.
1. Institutional Approaches to Holistic Ministry
In adopting Holistic Ministry , institutions employ one of two organizational strategies: 
2. Holistic Ministry Engagement by People
In addition, people engage in both the personal and communal aspects of their lives: