For a long time, faith-based organizations (FBOs) were overlooked in global development discussions. Today, however, they are increasingly recognized as key actors in the fight against poverty. In the Global South—where resources are often scarce—FBOs play a vital role by mobilizing their members, fostering participation, and empowering communities.
One inspiring example is the Use Your Talents (UYT) project, an asset-based community development (ABCD) initiative within the Lutheran Church of Madagascar (FLM). Instead of focusing on what communities lack, UYT builds on what people already have—their skills, faith, and networks.
What the Research Shows
A field study (July–October 2018) observed four FLM congregations across three synods. Using interviews, observations, and thematic analysis, the research highlighted:
- Religion as a driving force: Faith inspires individual and collective engagement in community development.
- Collective action through ABCD: The UYT approach mirrors key ABCD principles, encouraging members to work together.
- Empowering women: The project significantly promoted women’s leadership and participation in community development.
- Congregations as civil society actors: Local churches act as powerful hubs for social transformation, mobilizing their greatest asset—their people.
Why It Matters
This study sheds light on how congregations contribute to sustainable development through faith, assets-based methods, and gender inclusion. It also underscores that Christian faith itself can be seen as an intangible but powerful community asset.
Key Publications
- Rakotoarison, Z. R., Dietrich, S., & Hiilamo, H. T. (2021). Faith as an asset in a community development project: The case of Madagascar. HTS Teologiese Studies. Read here
- Rakotoarison, Z. R., Dietrich, S., & Hiilamo, H. T. (2019). Tackling poverty with local assets: A case study on congregational asset–based community development in a Lutheran church in Madagascar. Diaconia. Journal for the Study of Christian Social Practice. Read here
- Rakotoarison, Z. R. (2024). Gender and Power Relations in a Malagasy Congregational Asset-Based Community Development Project. Religion and Development. Read here