Christian Social Action

Although it is risky to establish definite categories, we believe that social action can be regarded as any action that is not primarily motivated by a desire to convert others to Christianity.

World Vision believes that it is obliged to make conservative churches aware that social concern is an integral part of Christianity. We agree this is important, but conservative churches constitute a small percentage of both New Zealand and the third world population.

The real problem when the people of New Zealand are asked to contribute money arises when they are not fully informed of World Vision's Christian orientation.

Childcare comprises 75% of World Vision's New Zealand programme. When we asked Mr Renner why childcare was given such a high priority he replied: "because New Zealanders respond well to appeals for childcare help." He did not seem to care whether or not this was a priority of the Third World.

There are two main areas of childcare assistance: adoption and individual sponsorship.