ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the relationship of faith-based organizations with the welfare state, and in particular the impact of the state on faith-based organizations. The branding of an organization, including the name and signage, are often the first indications that it may have some faith basis, but this is not necessarily an accurate predictor, with some faith-based organizations intentionally choosing names which have no religious connotations. Whether or not indicated in their name, faith-based organizations typically have some degree of affiliation with a religious constituency, and it is this religious affiliation that differentiates them from their secular counterparts. Although faith-based organizations are those that derive their identity and purpose from a particular religious or spiritual tradition, organizations which emerge from the same religious tradition may develop divergent understandings as to what their purpose should be. The emphasis of organizations which primarily provide care services for members of a faith community may be typified as community maintenance.
