Social and community function of churches
Christians believe that it is part of their duty to act in a moral way and this involves helping others around them. The Church can play a vital role in Christians helping others as they provide:
- food banks – a place where people living in poverty can go and collect some food
- Salvation Army – a Christian denomination who help those who are suffering
- help for the homeless – Housing Justice is a Christian charity who try to ensure everyone has a home
There are also many non-religious functions that can take place in a church building, eg:
- crèche facilities
- youth groups
- community meeting places (eg keep fit classes)
- adult education classes
- charity events
- coffee mornings
- birthday parties
- concerts
Jesus taught the importance of helping others who are less fortunate, and this is why the Church has these extra functions.
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me
Question
Describe the main functions of the church.
The Christian Church has many different functions. The main function of a local church is a place for Christians to worship. This can include individual worship and collective worship, such as a church service on a Sunday morning. As well as a place to worship, the church serves many other purposes, such as holding a Sunday school for children where they can learn about Jesus’ teachings, food banks for those who are living in poverty, concerts, fêtes and even crèche facilities.
