Christian Community Development focuses on recognizing and creating conducive environments in which we—individuals, churches, and communities—rely on the power of the Holy Spirit, understand our own gifts and resources, and work together with our neighbors in their gifts and resources for the development of our community. Oftentimes, Christian ministry, particularly in marginalized and low-status communities, creates dependency. The Bible teaches empowerment, not dependency. All people have inherited dignity by being created in the image of God. Many times, charity demeans a person and strips him or her of dignity. The principle of empowerment affirms a person’s God-given dignity and allows that person to use their giftings to contribute to the flourishing of the community. Join Edward Franklin to learn more about Empowerment.