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BIBLE STUDIES

Two Bible Studies were conducted by Rev. Dr. Goduin Shiri, the General Secretary of the SCM of India. The first session was on the Christian understanding of Poverty. He stated that poverty could be defined in spiritual and material terms. Poverty in the material sense of economic disparity was an undeniable reality in Asia. India could be exemplified as a country rich in resources, but majority of the population live below the poverty line. He described poverty as a sub-human life and not God's will for all. Selfishness is the factor that has perpetuated poverty and exploitation.

The second Bible Study was on Christian Participation in Politics. Dr. Shiri said that as Christians, if we want to fight poverty and exploitation, we cannot avoid participation in the political life of the country. In doing so, we come into conflict with the fundamentalist who believe that the primary concern of Christians should be conversion. In the Asian situation, Rev. Dr. Shiri opinioned that the churches future role should be more development oriented.

He concluded by saying that it is only when we are ready to live our life for others, can we grow in fullness of life and give life to others.

Rev. Godwin Shiri speaking on poverty