Disparity Matters: The Church’s Call to Understand the Systemic Influence of Power and Money in Fort Wayne, Indiana

The purpose of this project is to research the systemic influences of power and money on conditions of disparity in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and consider how the Church might seek the Shalom within this context. The exploration of this project consists of biblical study, historical and social science research, data analysis and mapping, and personal engagement with a local focus group. Findings of this project are three-fold: a biblical foundation for understanding disparity and shalom; a historical analysis that frames religious, political, and economic influences on issues of disparity; and an assessment of disparity in Fort Wayne. The primary outcomes of this project are a) the assessment of disparity in Fort Wayne related to the influence of power and money, and b) relative conclusions and implications for the Church and community for addressing those issues. A secondary outcome of this project is a tool kit that is designed to assist churches, organizations, and individuals toward understanding disparity and shalom-building. The tool kit consists of suggested topics of study, resources of information and study material, and questions to guide the process of learning. These tools are intended to be flexible, reflective, and personally engaging.