Innovative Service or Proselytizing: Exploring When Services Delivery Becomes a Platform for Unwanted Religious Persuasion

Authors

Michael E. Sherr, Cedarville UniversityFollow
Jon Singletary
Robin K. Rogers

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2009

Journal Title

Social Work

ISSN

0037-8046

Volume

54

Issue

2

First Page

157

Last Page

165

Abstract

In this article, the authors explore the question: When does services delivery cross the line and become an opportunity for proselytizing? The authors posit that social workers have a justifiable concern for usurping their professional and privileged roles to influence such an important part of their clients' lives. A case study of one Christian nonprofit agency indicates that social workers need to be cautious as they seek to provide ethical practice in religious settings. The authors conclude by recommending guidelines for social work practice in religious organizations.

Keywords

Ethics, religion, social work practice, spirituality

Recommended Citation

Sherr, Michael E.; Singletary, Jon; and Rogers, Robin K., "Innovative Service or Proselytizing: Exploring When Services Delivery Becomes a Platform for Unwanted Religious Persuasion" (2009). Social Work Faculty Publications. 44.
https://digitalcommons.cedarville.edu/social_work_publications/44