The message of both the Old and New Testament encourages cancellation of burdensome debts; the theme of Jubilee runs deep in Scripture. An excerpt from "Proclaim Jubilee" by Jubilee USA Network explains it best:
Jesus begins his public ministry in Luke's gospel by quoting a Jubilee text from the prophet Isaiah (61:1-2), salted with sermon illustrations on God's mission to all nations. He read the scripture for all to hear, announcing that God has sent good news to the poor and had announced freedom for the prisoners and the oppressed (Luke 4:16-30). By proclaiming the kingdom of God as a form of Jubilee, in the present tense, for all nations, Jesus opens the Jubilee for layers of additional meaning and interpretation.
- Jubilee Congregations Handbook The Jubilee Congregations handbook is filled with information and resources to help put your faith into action. Download our Jubilee Congregations Handbook for information on how to become a Jubilee Congregation, worship and study resources, and information about the issues of debt and global economic justice.
Other Suggested Resources
- A Jubilee Liturgy (Wild Goose Resource Group). Available by writing the Iona Community, 840 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 3UU, Scotland.
- Our Prayers Rise Like Incense: Liturgies for Peace (Pax Christi USA). Available by calling 814-453-4955.
- Proclaim Jubilee! A three-stage skit on breaking the chains of debt (Bread for the World). Available by calling 800-82-BREAD.
