How we view transformation
We tend to think of poverty only in terms of material things—things a person doesn’t have. The truth is, much of our society lives in a state of spiritual and relational poverty. It is usually a mixture of external influences, original condition in life, and/or bad choices. The goal of transformational development is to help people recover their true identity as human beings created in the image of God, and to help them discover their true vocation as productive stewards, faithfully caring for the world and all the people in it.
Our desire is to help people experience the full meaning of shalom. Shalom is dwelling at peace with God, with self, with others, and with nature. It means living with harmonious and enjoyable relationships. It is belonging to an authentic and nurturing community where one can be one’s true self and give one’s self away without becoming poor. It is living fully and experiencing a joy that goes beyond having things. This is the abundant life and this is the peace that passes all understanding.
The Dwelling Place endeavors to reach out to the poor and to those who are victims of injustice and help them establish a life that rises above the numerous barriers that can stand in the way of true fulfillment.