Resources
Becoming Whole
Becoming Whole is a perspective on poverty alleviation and human flourishing developed by the Chalmers Center. Embraced by churches and ministries around the world, it offers a biblical framework for addressing poverty—rooted in the gospel and focused on restoring relationships, not just meeting material needs. The videos below highlight its key principles.
Becoming Whole 1: Introduction
The stories we believe shape our work with people in poverty. What if there’s a better story—and a better way to help? Learn more about why the American Dream is the wrong story and what the right story is. (watch video, 7 min)
Stories are powerful The stories we believe - whether true or false - shape our entire lives. The gospel story is key to effective poverty alleviation. (watch video, 4 min)
Perspectives on embodying biblical foundations in poverty alleviation. (watch video, 4 min)
Becoming Whole 4: Broken Systems and People
Broken people and broken systems both contribute to poverty. An awareness of both is vital to effective poverty alleviation. (watch video, 8 min)
Western Christians tend to overlook the spiritual aspect of poverty alleviation. We forget that we’re in a battle against demonic spirits. The good news is that Christ has overcome, and this has major implications for our poverty alleviation work. (watch video, 5 min)
Becoming Whole 6: Kingdom Community
It’s impossible to address poverty without the local church. (watch video, 6 min)
First Aid Arts
We live in a beautiful world. It's also a world of tragedy and trauma. After wounds have been bandaged and stomachs filled, healing must go deeper. First Aid Arts is a nonprofit that provides "first aid for the heart". Helping survivors express what's beyond words, connecting with themselves, others, and finding hope and healing.
Watch introductory video or visit www.firstaidarts.org
Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries
Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries equips the Church to support mental health and wellbeing. Raise awareness and start conversations in your church about mental health through The Sanctuary Course.
Stephen Ministries
Stephen Ministries is a non-profit Christian education organization that produces training and resources to equip the Church to support mental health and wellbeing.
Known for their excellence, practicality, psychological integrity, and theological depth these resources cover caring ministry, assertive relating, spiritual gifts discovery, grief support, spiritual growth, and more. Churches and other organizations use these resources to strengthen and expand ministry. Individuals use them to improve their ability to relate to and care for others, grow in faith, and journey through life crises.
Watch introductory video.
Stephen Ministries
Stephen Ministries offers a proven and effective way to organize, equip, and supervise a team of congregation members—called Stephen Ministers—to provide high-quality, one-to-one, Christ-centered care to people in the congregation and the community experiencing life difficulties. Watch introductory video.