As part of the dedication of a Habitat house, we give a golden hammer to the home owner. This hammer refers to the theology of the hammer as explained and practiced by Millard Fuller, the founder of Habitat for Humanity. In his book, “Theology of the Hammer,” Mr. Fuller wrote,
Our Christian faith mandates that we do more than just talk about faith and sing about love. We must put faith and love into action to make them real, to make them come alive for people. … Within the context of Habitat for Humanity, “the theology of the hammer” dictates that the nail be hit on the head – literally and repeatedly—until the house is built and the needy family moves in. It means, too, that continuing love and concern must be shown to the family to ensure success as a new homeowner. … This theology is also about bringing together a wide diversity of people, churches, and other organizations to build houses and establish viable and dynamic communities. It is acknowledging that differences of opinion exist on numerous subjects – political, philosophical, and theological – but that we can find common ground in using a hammer as an instrument to manifest God’s love.
When we include the presentation of a hammer as part of the dedication ceremony, we are reaffirming the our core conviction that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.
Next year, we have funding for 15 new homes. This is twice as many as we built this year. We urgently need crew leaders and house leaders to make this happen. (To learn what they do, read “What is a House Leader?” and “What is a Crew Leader?”) If you would like to put your faith in action as crew leader or house leader, we would love to talk to you about training opportunities. Send us your name and number on this form and we will call you at the start of the next business week.