Unemployment, bankruptcy and foreclosure are all around us. We see them in the headlines and we hear them on the radio. It is almost impossible to enter into a conversation in the modern era that doesn’t eventually touch on one or more of those terms as well. Obviously this breeds a great deal of despair as well. While some people may feel entirely overwhelmed during periods of financial recession and depression, and believe that such terrible moments are too difficult to manage, the great news is that an even larger number “rally” and reach out to help anyone they can – even if they need the help more than anyone else!

Increase in Attendance
National church statistics reaching back to 1968 indicate that with each period of financial trouble in the United States there was a more than 50% increase in church attendance as well. People were seeking the companionship of those who were looking to spirituality for their needs, and also to a community of nurturing and support.

So, with that being said, what can churches do in the current climate? What can they do to help those facing foreclosure? While supporting faith and community, they can also extend any resources that can help meet the needs of those struggling all around. For example, food pantries and soup kitchens are vital resources to many families struggling to make ends meet. Support and discussion groups can help people to really open up and “vent” to others about their anxiety and fear. Additionally, a church can sponsor all kinds of beneficial workshops and discussions about a homeowner’s alternatives.

For example, a church might start a community garden for those who need to save money on food and who don’t mind contributing some “sweat equity” to the process. They could also host a visit from a loan modification expert or company who can review people’s options for loan modification or repayment plans. This is a great way to provide church and community members with no-cost access to the type of professional that can help them avoid foreclosure if at all possible.

True Community Pillars
Loan modification is the process underwritten in the United States government bailout of the banking industry. Roughly $75 billion dollars is available for banks and borrowers who will need to renegotiate their loans and repay any sums which they might owe their lender.

Churches can be true community pillars, particularly in time of national crisis. Right now they can really help people by encouraging them to keep moving forward and finding as many solutions as possible.

As always, thanks for reading this post and if you enjoyed it be sure to comment below. Also, check out our FREE 2009 Loan Modification Guide: Saving Your Home From Foreclosure.