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homeless
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Messages: 1 - 4 (90 total)
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vra
1/25/2006 1:48 PM
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1 out of 90 |
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A close friend and fellow teacher was talking a few years back to a teacher from Finland who was here for a couple of weeks as part of a cultural exchange. During one conversation, my friend asked the Finn about the homeless in Finland, but he seemed confused by the question. When my friend defined "homeless" and explained that we have quite a few here in the States, the Finnish teacher was shocked. He asked why we allow this.
As one who was brought up Swedish and who has kept close ties with my tradition, I can safely say that homelessness is not evident in Sweden either. Now some may be inclined to say that this might be due to the cold Scandinavian winters, but the northeastern U.S. is pretty close to what we find in southern Sweden and Finland.
Scandinavian countries, which are officially Lutheran, have a very low rate of church attendance (Sweden is under 10% on an average weekend), but the U.S. has a high rate (over 40%).
What's theologically wrong with this picture?
Why aren't most churches clammering for change? Why don't we see many "religious" politicians demanding an end to homelessness?
Shalom,
Vern
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clyde5001
1/25/2006 1:58 PM
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2 out of 90 |
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It’s easier to worry about sexual sins than anything else.
Also, this country was founded on the Protestant Work Ethic. I’m sure there are lots and lots of people who think the homeless really deserve it.
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AmaraS
1/25/2006 2:02 PM
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3 out of 90 |
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Of course, we have to consider all the reasons why these other countries have no homeless.
Homelessness is not cured simply through charity, the issues that create it must be addressed. What do they do differently economically and socially?
Is the minimum wage an actual livable wage? Is healthcare affordable? Can someone get a college education without going $50,000 or more in debt? Are there laws that protect from frivolous lawsuits? Are there laws that protect consumers from malicious sales? What is the rate of unemployment? What is the state of care for the elderly and the disabled?
Very little has to do with the faith of the country, in my opinion.
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walkingman
1/25/2006 2:04 PM
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4 out of 90 |
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I think the U.S.'s approach to the homeless is more politically motivated than theologically motivated.
Still, why aren't "churches" (don't mean to limit it) demanding change? Good question. Unfortunately, we're in a time when "churches" have alligned themselves with the politic process.
It would be great if "churches" could serve as a prophetic voice.
Peace.
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