Alvin Sanders - Moving from Poverty to Flourishing Communities

In this powerful episode of Bleeding Daylight, Reverend Dr. Alvin Sanders shares his transformative approach to urban ministry as President of World Impact. Drawing from personal experience with poverty and three decades in ministry, Sanders challenges traditional church models by advocating for a "neighbourhood-as-parish" approach where churches become institutional assets to their communities. He reveals how World Impact's "glocally urban" strategy equips untrained pastors in 19 countries through innovative programs like their "seminary in a backpack."

 

Sanders unpacks the true nature of poverty beyond finances and outlines practical strategies for churches to engage their communities authentically. From creating "third spaces" that combat loneliness to implementing Asset-Based Community Development models, he demonstrates how churches can move beyond paternalistic charity to foster genuine community flourishing. His stories of transformation—from Cincinnati neighbourhoods to closed countries experiencing revival—illustrate how trained urban leaders can catalyse lasting change when churches approach ministry with humility, genuine care, and a commitment to meeting people at their point of need.

 

WEBLINKS
World Impact
World Impact Facebook
Alvin’s LinkedIn