Providing resources, support – and compassion

By Beryl M. Jantzi, M. Div., MMA stewardship education director

The term bankruptcy comes from two Latin terms meaning “bench” and “break,” or literally, “broken bench.” The formal action of declaring oneself financially insolvent developed in ancient Rome. If a debtor declared an inability to pay debts, all those who were owed money gathered to divide what remained. They then proceeded to break the workbench of the tradesperson as a warning. Roman law deprived such a person of all civil rights.

Thankfully we have come a long way since ancient Rome! However, stigmas remain for those unable to pay their creditors. While on the one hand we believe in grace and the forgiveness of “debts” (Matthew 6:12), we also believe we need to be responsible citizens and not be indebted to anyone (Romans 13:7-8).

Recently, I received a call from an MMA member asking what I would recommend to someone dealing with mounting debt. “Is it ever an option for a Christian to declare bankruptcy?” this person asked. I referred them to our partner, LSS Financial Counseling.*

I encourage you to also consider referring people struggling in this area to LSS. They have the time – and the expertise – to give advice that will help a person make the decision that is right for them.

LSS Financial Counseling makes the following commitments when working with people struggling with a bankruptcy decision:

• Reduce shame with non-judgmental language describing bankruptcy as an option of last resort.
• Encourage clients to get a free legal consultation from two to three bankruptcy attorneys and help them develop a list of questions to ask.
• Encourage clients to try alternatives first (expense cuts, extra part-time job, renter income).

This budget and debt counseling, a free service for up to four sessions, is another benefit of working with MMA.

Whether or not to go the route of bankruptcy is a decision each person or couple needs to make for themselves. For our part, MMA and the church can provide resources, support, and compassion. I don’t think Christ would want to break anyone’s “bench” – or their spirit. The natural consequences of our decisions and economic downturns can be burdensome enough.

*Learn more about LSS Financial Counseling.