THE IMPLICATION OF APPLYING BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES TO POVERTY REDUCTION IN THE DIOCESE OF MUYINGA THE ANGLICAN CHURCH OF BURUNDI

Abstract

The study focused on addressing poverty within the Diocese of Muyinga, Burundi, through a holistic, biblically grounded approach that integrates both spiritual and economic dimensions. It emphasized that as Christians, we must base our support on the Word of God, viewing ourselves as the light and salt of the world in advancing economic development and reducing poverty. This holistic approach aligns with God's transformative story, which should guide the physical and spiritual growth of the Church. According to Psalm 115:8, we become like what we worship, so if we truly reflect God's nature, our actions should mirror His principles (compare with 2 Corinthians 3:18). The purpose of this research was to study the level of poverty by considering the strategies used for poverty alleviation, also to find out the biblical principles relevant to poverty alleviation in the context of Burundi. Utilizing a qualitative research design and data collection through interviews, the study revealed that in the Diocese of Muyinga particularly in Burundi, strategies such as training on sources of income, community involvement in projects and utilization of the inspired scriptures as could significantly contribute to poverty reduction. The study underscored that the Anglican Church of Burundi has the potential play-part on poverty alleviation, actively attracting the public by implementing both biblical and non-biblical economic principles. The result of the empirical measurement have substantive results and actionable suggestions that can hold true relevance to policy makers and practitioners and other parties interested in employing effective poverty reduction solutions in the region.