Christian Mission and Poverty

Chapter 8: Holistic Mission

219

Discussion Questions

Mary pictures a new monasticism lived in the world rather than in a monastery as envisioned by Benedict. How might your faith community live out monastic ideals in your city or community?

Why would Padilla say that holistic mission corrects a one-sided view of mission? What does it mean that the Word is proclaimed and that the Word is made flesh? How does the Gospel address both spiritual and physical needs? Where do you see the holistic Gospel in Scripture? Mary talks about “spiritual nonpossession.” How does she distinguish this from “impoverishment of spirit”? In what ways is your heart spiritually or literally greedy? How might your spirit be impoverished? Dream about how your faith community could live out a Gospel of both word and deed. Are there holistic ministries or actions God is calling you or your local worshipping community to engage in?

What disciplines is God calling your faith community to practice so that you can be a part of God’s holistic mission in the world?