The words "holistic" and "wholistic" can be used interchangeably according to dictionaries. One notable aspect of the CCDA Principle of "A Wholistic Approach" is its deliberate spelling. So why does CCDA emphasize viewing community development through a "wholistic" lens? Let's explore this!

A Wholistic Approach considers the complete picture of life. It addresses physical, spiritual, economic, and social needs together rather than treating them as separate issues. CCDA practitioners often reference the concept of Shalom, a Hebrew word that translates to "peace" in English.

Within CCDA, we discuss Shalom in four distinct dimensions, representing peace across four different relationships. Through Christ's work on the cross, Christians can pursue shalom in these four areas: reconciliation between God and self, right relationships with neighbors, peace in your relationship with yourself, and harmony with all aspects of God's creation.

I got the chance to share specific applications of Wholistic Neighborhood Impact that my department is implementing during our spring 8-week Immerse Course. I highlighted our neighborhood Action Teams and the Flourishing Neighborhood Index survey approach that began in 2022 in Waterloo's Walnut and Church Row neighborhoods. To learn more about these initiatives, visit our previous blog post: The Flourishing Neighborhood Index & 2 Success Stories of Action Teams | Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity.

I'll conclude with the powerful words from 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24: "Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it." I believe the Lord is actively working toward whole-life restoration in our world and making individuals holy as described in this passage. Though this process can be slow and sometimes painful, we know that all Creation longs for this wholistic restoration (Romans 8:22). We are blessed to participate in this work!

Pictured below: Examples of wholistic neighborhood investment, including educational gatherings about a variety of topics, building on an Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity home, and fire safety in neighborhoods!