Christian Mission and Poverty

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Christian Mission and Poverty

Discussion Questions

How does Catherine connect the desire for wealth to systems of injustice and violence? How is your community shaped by people pursuing wealth? How does it affect those who are poor? Catherine makes an important distinction between commandment and counsel. How does she understand the difference between the two? How could this distinction help you think about different callings in regard to wealth and poverty?

Clare praises poverty and Catherine calls poverty a Queen. Why would they feel this way about poverty? What is your heart’s desire?

Clare grew up in wealth and chose to leave it behind. She praises the ruler Agnes for using her wealth and position in service to the poor. How might God want to use your hands? Are there things he is calling you leave behind? To give away? To use, like Agnes, for the pursuit of justice? Catherine prays to be consumed by God, whom she describes as a fiery abyss of charity and as drunk with desire for her. Are there practices of prayer and meditation that would help guide you in regard to money, charity, and justice?