St. Matthew Habitat for Humanity Ministry

Prologue:

This is the fifth in a series of articles that will appear in the Sunday bulletin over the next several weeks. These articles are designed to help our parishioners understand what Habitat for Humanity is all about, provide up to date facts, and guide our parishioners in supporting the project.

Chapter Five:  The Theology of the Hammer

From the book “Theology of the Hammer” by Millard Fuller, founder of Habitat for Humanity, “the idea or the concept of ‘the theology of the hammer’ is that our Christian faith mandates that we do more than just talk about faith and sing about love.  We must put our faith and love into action to make them real, to make them come alive for people.  Faith must be incarnated; that is to say, it must become more than a verbal proclamation.  True faith must be acted out.”

In his book, Fuller stresses that “the nail be hit on the head-literally, and repeatedly – until the house is built and the needy family moves in.  It means, too, that continuing love and concern must be shown to the family to ensure success as a new homeowner.”  Our St. Matthew community will be able to put their faith into action as we sponsor our 6th Habitat house. Construction on the house will begin on February 29, 2008. First, we must raise the funds needed to sponsor the house for one family in need of a simple, decent, affordable home.  Our all out Blitz Fundraiser Weekend is November 3 – 4, 2007. You will have the opportunity to “buy” one or more square feet of the house or purchase parts of the house (i.e. – the shingles or the flooring).  All donations are tax deductible and 100% of every donation will go towards the building of the St. Matthew Habitat house.  We sincerely hope that your donation to this ministry is over and above your regular church donation, but understand that the decision is between you and God.

The most important step in sponsoring any Habitat house is prayer. The bible verse that will guide our efforts again this year is from James 2:18 “I will show you my faith by what I do.”   Please continue to pray for the success of our St. Matthew Habitat for Humanity Ministry.  For more information, contact Susan McClure at 341-9623. Thank you for your support. God bless.  (To Be Continued Next Week) [Top]