THE CHURCH AND SOCIAL WELFARE: Christian Perspectives on Social Problems, Volume I

Under the Editorship of Gayraud S. Wilmore, a series of brief, readable analyses of cultural problems is projected for the next few years, and if the rest measure up to this first volume, a great service will have been done. The author, Dr. Alan Keith-Lucas, is himself a layman and a man of high standing in the field of professional social work. He writes as an American Protestant. He is concerned that in his own field, the Church not only operates badly, but even more that it fails to offer the guidance and example that are inherent in its theology. Pointing to seven specific areas for immediate action, he closes his volume with an analysis of the Theology of Personal Helping which must underlie all action in those areas. This book is unique, very readable, challenging and fair. From the Pastor planning Christmas baskets, to the administrator of charities, all this should be read. In fact, any social worker or Christian layman with a social conscience will be glad for time spent with it. This should go far to bring day to day operation in the welfare field in line with our God given insights.