Building Belonging - Print

Building Belonging
The Church's Call to Build Community and House Our Neighbors

By John Cleghorn

A prophetic call for churches to respond to the housing crisis by creating inclusive, justice-rooted communities where all belong and are housed.

This book will help you:
•    Understand housing as a spiritual and moral imperative for the church
•    Discover how congregations can take practical steps toward housing justice
•    Learn from real-life stories of churches building homes and communities
•    Explore biblical and theological foundations for radical hospitality
•    Be inspired to engage in local advocacy, organising, and action
•    Cultivate a congregation committed to compassion, dignity, and equity
•    Reimagine church property as sacred space for community transformation

Features
•    Written by John Cleghorn, pastor and housing justice advocate
•    Combines theology, storytelling, and practical guidance
•    Inspires and equips churches to address homelessness and housing inequity
•    Rooted in lived experience and community partnership
•    Includes reflection questions and case studies for group discussion

Soft cover, 200pp
ISBN: 9780664268503
1.12 cms H x 21.59 cms L x 13.97 cms W (0.24 kgs)
Westminster John Knox Press (2023)

[Allow 4 weeks]

Description
A passionate and practical guide for churches ready to move beyond charity and into justice.

In a time of deepening housing insecurity, Cleghorn calls on congregations to see housing not as a political issue but as a sacred calling grounded in the gospel.

Drawing from his own experience leading a congregation that transformed its property and mission to house vulnerable neighbours, Cleghorn shares inspiring stories, theological reflections, and actionable strategies for becoming a church of radical welcome and justice.

This book is ideal for pastors, church leaders, social justice ministries, and anyone seeking to align their faith with action.

Whether your congregation is just beginning to ask “What can we do?” or already involved in community engagement, Building Belonging offers a compelling vision and roadmap for making a tangible difference.

About the Author
John Cleghorn is the pastor of Caldwell Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, and a recognised leader in housing justice and community engagement. His ministry blends prophetic preaching with hands-on advocacy, inviting churches into the work of transformation and belonging.

Contents
1.    The Crisis of Housing and the Call of the Church
2.    Biblical Foundations of Hospitality and Shelter
3.    From Charity to Justice: A Congregational Journey
4.    What Belonging Really Means
5.    Creative Use of Church Property
6.    Listening to Neighbours and Forming Partnerships
7.    Overcoming Fear, Resistance, and Inertia
8.    Telling a New Story of the Church
9.    Practical Steps Toward Housing Justice
10.    Conclusion: A Sacred Community for All