The local church is often found at the heart of a community, not only upholding belief, cultural values
and social tradition, but also as a force for positive change and development. This paper illustrates how
the church is well-placed
to fulfil the vital roles necessary to deliver and sustain improved hygiene and
sanitation. It draws on case studies that illustrate church-based
responses to the need for improved
sanitation and hygiene in programmes supported by Tearfund, a Christian relief & development agency.
Five roles, key to the development and change needed to tackle the sanitation crisis, characterise the
church’s involvement: Messenger (Communicating messages about improved sanitation and hygiene);
Demonstrator (Demonstrating an improved facility or practice); Implementer (Helping communities
attain improved sanitation and hygiene through technical and financial support); Advocate (Speaking out
to policymakers with, and on behalf of, communities); Guardian (Maintaining the gains achieved through
improved hygiene and sanitation)
