Conclusions

Abstract

Faith-based NGOs (FBOs) experience a tension between their charitable mandate and the chance to guide their constituencies, facilitating civic activism on global poverty. By what they ask of their constituents, FBOs signal to people of faith how to respond to poverty and inequality. Many US FBOs send the message that a cash contribution for humanitarian relief is what faith and conscience require. Some, created as international charities, have become effective insider advocates in Washington, DC. Others make concerted, creative efforts to mobilize their constituencies. Most pursue cautious, reformist agendas focused primarily on foreign aid policy. With the United States—and the world—experiencing climate, COVID-19, and racial justice crises, Nelson makes a case for FBOs to advance more prophetic agendas.