| Habitat is founded on
the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent, affordable
place to live in dignity and safety. Habitat has an open-door policy: All who desire to be a part of this work
are welcome, regardless of religious preference or background. Habitat for Humanity has
always had a policy of building with people in need regardless of race or religion, and we
welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds.
The work of Habitat for Humanity is
driven by the desire to give tangible expression to the love of God through the work of
eliminating poverty housing. Habitat's mission and methods are predominantly derived from
a few key theological concepts: the necessity of putting faith into action, the
"economics of Jesus" and the "theology of the hammer."
Putting Faith into Action
Habitat's ministry is based on the
conviction that to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ we must reflect Christ's love in
our own lives by loving and caring for one another. Our love must not be words only-it
must be true love, which shows itself in action. Habitat provides an opportunity for
people to put their faith and love into action, bringing diverse groups of people together
to make affordable housing and better communities a reality for everyone.
The Economics of Jesus
When people act in response to
human need, giving what they have without seeking profit or interest, we believe God
magnifies the effects of our efforts. Habitat refers to this perspective as "the
economics of Jesus." Together, the donated labor of construction volunteers, the
support of partner organizations and the homeowners' "sweat equity" make
Habitat's house building possible.
The Theology of the Hammer
Habitat is a partnership founded on
common ground-bridging theological differences by putting love into action. Everyone can
use the hammer as an instrument to manifest God's love. Habitat founder Millard Fuller
calls this concept "the theology of the hammer," explaining, "We may
disagree on all sorts of other things ... but we can agree on the idea of building homes
with God's people in need, and in doing so using biblical economics: no profit and no
interest."
Habitat for Humanity welcomes all
people to build with us in partnership. "The Bible teaches that God is the God of the
whole crowd," explains Fuller. "God's love leaves nobody out, and my love should
not either. This understanding drives 'the theology of the hammer' around the world,
steadily building more and more houses in more and more countries." |
