We want to see communities transformed
Local churches begin a lifelong journey when they embrace and commit to partnering in God’s mission to bring restoration.
This journey empowers them, changes mindsets and brings about transformation in both the church and the community. The church seeks ‘whole-life’ change, and responds to the needs of their local community holistically and from within. Their destination is what we refer to as ‘Church and Community Transformation’ (CCT) as people realise their potential and recognise the resources God has given them.
CCT approaches vary and are adapted for every different country and church context. They need to be locally-owned to be effective: there is not a set of fixed steps that works everywhere. But we know that, universally, local church leaders and facilitators are key agents of change as they walk closely with individuals and communities.
Again this year, we’ve seen churches stepping up and responding to crises, conflicts, Covid-19 and climate change. These responses have included: peacebuilding, livelihoods, water and sanitation, climate-smart agriculture, self-help groups and savings groups, waste management and small scale enterprises, and changing social norms and negative behaviours – particularly related to gender-based violence.
All of these initiatives are locally-owned and led by churches and local partners. We have seen that their close collaboration at the heart of community brings transformational change.