The discipline of
social work is rooted in core values that most would agree are laudable. For
Christ-centered social workers, the values of service, human dignity, the
importance of human relationships, social justice, integrity, and competency
are also fundamental values of the faith. Social work core values were
literally taught and lived out by the author and finisher of our Christian
faith, Jesus Christ. The social work curriculum is built on core values and
competencies that students must demonstrate to complete successfully. Social
work is a social science that depends on relationships and evidence-based,
effective interventions. Social work began with private Christian organizations
serving people experiencing hardships. Over time, social work practice was
incorporated into government institutions that did not allow faith-focused
service delivery. The field has become increasingly secularized, leaving many
uncertain about how to integrate their faith into their practice. This workshop
explores the connection between social work’s core values and Christ-centered
values. It offers guidance on integrating faith into social work practice by
connecting social work core values and Christ-centered values. Ethical faith
integration in social work practice strengthens the practitioner and the
client/consumer. Uncertainty about ethical faith integration in social work can
undermine intervention efforts. Social work faculty who emphasize social work
and Christian value connectedness can effectively support students exploring
their faith while learning the foundations of social work and developing their
professional identity. Social work students who learn to ethically integrate
faith into practice can provide social work services more confidently.
Yakiciwey Mitchell