Thomas Paine writing in The Crisis noted: “These are the times that try men’s souls.” That phrase certainly can also be applied to the economic downturn we are experiencing.

Men are particularly being hit hard by the economic crisis. According to University of Michigan professor Mark J. Perry, in the last 12 months, 8 of every 10 pink slips have gone to men. And as a result those men are facing significant personal and financial turmoil. On April 6, 2009, Sanders Research Associates, LTD reported 25 percent of healthy, American men ages 16-64 are unemployed.

Unemployment is about more than a paycheck. There appears to be stages through which the unemployed go: (1) shock, feeling degraded, tension, and self-esteem issues (2) depression and pessimism, and (3) fatalism, the feeling no one will hire them and many simply give up.

The Christian community can be a powerful force of restoration if they are ready to offer sympathy, support, understanding, and compassion. Some congregations are doing just that. Following are some examples and ideas your church might want to consider.

• Host a self-help, support group for those who have been laid off or dismissed. Contact your community office and offer a meeting place for this group in your church.
• Offer seminars on community resources available (i.e. local food banks, free prescriptions and medical care, resume writing, mock interviews, and navigating employment websites).
• Use benevolence and food pantry resources to help individuals and families in crisis (short-term).
• Some churches are offering special classes to address long-term issues with one’s management of personal finances.

1. Financial Peace University, the Dave Ramsey series, regarding effective money management.
2. How to Survive the Economic Meltdown, free at http://www.maninthemirror.org/, written men’s leader, Dr. Patrick Morley
3. Crown Financial Ministries, an interdenominational ministry, dedicated to equipping people around the world to learn, apply, and teach biblical financial principles.
4. Scriptural Financial Freedom web site of Christian financial author, Ron Blue, assists with resource management.
5. How to Keep Your Home or Foreclosure Prevention Workshop. Invite banking personnel to discuss how loans and credit can be restructured.

Many churches are rising to the occasion to help its unemployed. This is a wonderful opportunity to minister in the name and power of Jesus Christ. First John 3:17 (The Message) succinctly states: “Suppose someone sees a brother or sister in need and is able to help them. If he doesn't take pity on them, how can the love of God be in him?”