Richard Poethig and the Social Gospel Movement
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The practices of industrial capitalism in the late 19th century deepened the class system in the United States and gave rise to industrial unions. At the same time, the excesses of those controlling capital, and the working and living conditions which resulted from that control , brought into being the Social Gospel Movement. I easily identified with those fighting against the injustices wrought by the industrial factory system. Here, I found the role of Protestant Christianity among the working class.
"Beyond New York" and my articles speak of my own engagement in this urban industrial movement in the church in the latter part of the twentieth century. This journey began in the United States and moved to the Philippines in Asia. In Asia, I saw the expansion of this ministry as it became a network of people throughout Asia and connecting to similar networks in Europe, Africa and Latin America. |
The Autobiography of Richard Poethig
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Remembering the Philippines: 1957-1972
In this short essay and audio story, Richard tells the story of how he and his wife, Eunice, followed their call to work in the Philippines in the areas of urban-industrial mission and Christian education. "It was a new day in mission," he says. Richard also reflects on how the Philippines and their fifteen years there continue to influence their lives and their thinking about the larger mission of the church in our current times.
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Credits: Music by Juan Silos Jr. & Rondalla, from Philippine Folk Dances, Vol. 1 (Itik-Itik and Sakuting,1958), Vol. 3 (Binasuan, 1959) and Vol. 4 (Rota, Rojana, 1959).
Beginnings of An Overseas Ministry as Told in Letters from Richard to His Family
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From Mindanao, Philippines, April 1958
Letters sent to Eunice by Richard on a journey to Mindanao after one year in the Philippines. |
Richard and Eunice with their children Scott, Johanna, and Kerry (left to right)
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