From decadent medieval popes to modern televangelists with private jets, religion and money can make for an unsavoury mix. Built on Jewish thought, the teaching of Jesus transformed the way we think vulnerable people should be treated.
This lesson traces the origins of healthcare in the West, and focuses on the story of Fabiola, the wealthy noblewoman who founded Rome’s first hospital.
Introduce
Share & Analyse
In pairs or small groups students share a time in their life when they were confronted by poverty or inequality. Perhaps while travelling, or something they or a friend experienced.
Using a website that sells groceries students try and come up with a meal plan for a budget of only $3 a day. Discuss the kind of diet they would have if this was their weekly food budget.
Students analyse the UN and World Bank global poverty infographics, discussing their observations and questions.
Human Barometer Activity
Facilitate a Human Barometer Activity where students indicate their perspective on the following statements:
- “Poor people deserve to be poor”
- “Those who are wealthy have a responsibility to help the poor”
- “Giving to the poor is mostly about getting something back in the process”
Engage
Watch & Respond
Watch the documentary excerpt ‘Being Poor in the Ancient World’ (7:50).
Students write a one-sentence summary and a short evaluation of the Plato & Plotinus quotes. As a class discuss why both Greek and Roman ethical thinkers criticised the early Christians for their actions towards the poor. Students consider what the motivations of emperors and wealthy benefactors who gave to the poor was. (Poverty in the Ancient World Slides)
Bible Study
Students read Proverbs 14:31, 19:17, 21:13 & 29:7 and discuss what each has to say about God’s attitude to the poor, how God’s people should treat the poor, and what that might practically look like in today’s world.
Students read 1 John 3:16-17 and answer the questions:
- What does John call his readers to do?
- What motivation does he give them?
- What do you think is the difference between loving with “words or speech” and “with actions and in truth”?
Respond
Brainstorm & Plan
Students write a short list of the poor and needy in Australian society today, then brainstorm a few ways the school could care for one of these groups.
In small groups students plan an awareness and fundraising event for a group of the poor and needy in Australia. They write a short press release and create a promotional poster.
Extension
Students research an Australian faith-based organisation that is fighting to end global poverty. Examples include TEAR, World Vision, Baptist World Aid, and Caritas (plus many more!). They then design a set of slides outlining the work the organisation does and the Christian basis for their mission.