In this session, we learn about how important it is to understand the true nature of poverty in all its dimensions if we are to relevantly and effectively help people who are marginalised, unreached, and poor to flourish as God intends. Poverty is about so much more than just a lack of money and material possessions. Understanding the true nature of poverty and its roots is vital, because the way that we think about poverty, the way we perceive people who are poor and crucially the way that we perceive ourselves will affect the way that we respond to those who are poor – for good or ill.  

Susie Howe has worked with those who are poor and marginalised in different nations on the African continent for over 25 years. In this session, she teaches about the multi-dimensional nature of poverty and how we can begin to connect with people who are poor and unreached, with the aim of learning from them, and helping them to find their place and thrive in God’s community. 

Susie recommends the following reading resources if you want to learn more about the true nature of poverty and how to walk and work effectively with those who are poor:

Embracing The Poor: Releasing, Resourcing and Equipping the Poor for World Mission

Editor: David Adams

Publisher: RoperPenberthy Publishing Ltd (July 2011)

Walking with the Poor: Principles and Practices for Transformational Development

Author: Bryant L. Myers

Publisher: Orbis Books (June 1999)

When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor …and Yourself

Authors: Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert

Publisher: Moody Publishers (June 2009)