Theology of the Hammer
In 1994, Habitat for Humanity's founder Millard Fuller published a book called, The Theology of the Hammer. In it he described how Habitat for Humanity carries out some teachings he thought were fundamental to Christianity. In Chapter 1, he wrote:
"What does 'the theology of the hammer' mean? Succeeding chapters seek to answer that question more fully, but, simply stated, the idea or concept of the 'theology of the hammer' is that our Christian faith (indeed, our entire Judeo-Christian tradition) 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. Faith must be incarnated; that is to say, it must become more than a verbal proclamation or an intellectual assent. True faith must be carried out."
"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..."
"Our goal in Habitat for Humanity is to completely eliminate poverty housing and homelessness. We will accomplish that lofty goal by making shelter a matter of conscience. Our intention is to make substandard housing and homelessness socially, politically, morally, and religiously unacceptable."