Summary

Is it possible to work in international development without hurting those we are helping?

Listen Online

Details

Professors Kuperus and Hoksbergen examine this question, reviewing both secular (e.g. The End of Poverty, Dead Aid) and Christian scholarship (When Helping Hurts, Toxic Charity). In response to a growing skepticism regarding global service, they challenge the perspective that suggests "helping always hurts" with insights that promote realistic, transformational development. In this session, Kuperus and Hoksbergen share nine lessons they have learned about how to be a healing presence in our efforts to promote the development of communities and persons around the world.

Recent Media Resources

Local Songwriting as CSA: Support Your Local Psalm Grower!

Riffing on the themes of community-supported agriculture (CSA), Cardiphonia and Bellwether Arts have been partnering with homegrown liturgical artists to create local, organically produced fruits of the psalms through song, art, and prayer—community-supported artistry. Since 2015 they’ve been on a journey of seasonal engagement through which they have lovingly harvested almost two hundred songs, dozens of original artworks, and other liturgical produce. In this workshop you will hear from a variety of growers who sow and reap in West Michigan in various soils and sediments.

May 28, 2026 | 81 min video
What Visual Artists See in the Psalms

The psalms present a world full of color, texture, and depth. Join us for this panel discussion in which participants explore the contribution of visual artists to our experience of the psalms. What do visual artists see when they approach the psalms? How can visual artists help form our theological imaginations? What role do the visual arts play in interpretation? This stimulating discussion aims to equip worshipers and leaders with resources for engaging the rich visual imagery of the psalms. 

May 28, 2026 | 90 min video
Practicing Resilience with the Psalms

The psalms are a rich resource for our human experience of emotions, community, and connection to God. We will practice activities based on the truth of the psalms and on psychology to strengthen our capacity for navigating suffering with grace and resilience.

May 21, 2026 | 74 min video