Before you begin you should review The Justice Continuum explanation:
Think of the following as a sample worksheet. Break out some paper and pens and start with these basic steps…
Step 1: Simply begin
What justice issue do you feel God has called you to engage? The fist step is to simply begin – to put a flag in the ground and say “This is it. This is where I’ll stand. Who will stand with me?” Define the issue and the initiative you would like to create:
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Step 2: Educate yourself and your team
Use this site to find other organizations; begin researching, thinking and praying about your cause. Conceptualize the issue at hand. Then brainstorm on what a complete justice continuum might look like:
Download a PDF worksheet here.
Compassion:
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Individual Development:
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Community Development:
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Structural Change:
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Step 3: Infuse your community
Begin with your community – take stock in the ministries and partnerships your community already has.
For example: an anti-human trafficking might not have much to build on, but a campaign to combat homelessness may already have a start with a local shelter or programs such as Jobs for Life; a global community development initiative may have roots with your church’s global missions or refugee ministry; a development initiative for inner-city single mothers should connect with an existing new moms ministry; a sports ministry could easily begin including both the families of the church and other communities.
Think creatively, there are most likely many opportunities to infuse what your community is already engaged in with the elements of justice ministry.
Existing Ministries and Partnerships:
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Infusion Opportunities:
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Step 4: Get Specific
Fill out the continuum worksheet again, this time with specific opportunities, specific people, and partners. Keep in mind, the goal is getting your community actively involved, not just charting what other organizations are doing (see “Be Agents of Change”).
Download a PDF worksheet here.
Step 5: What do you need?
On the back of the justice continuum worksheet begin brainstorming about and listing what it will take to begin moving forward. Communicate these needs to the greater community.