ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the notions of ethical practice by faith-based organizations before turning to explore some ethical concerns for social workers employed by faith-based organizations. Ethical practice by organizations, sometimes referred to as 'corporate social responsibility', may extend from ensuring that stakeholders are not harmed, to an obligation to act in ways which the organization contributes to the well-being of those it serves. In response to their particular beliefs, religious communities may deem it as not appropriate to provide particular services or only to provide them within limited parameters. Working for an organization with a strong value base can support and reinforce social workers' capacity to practise within their ethical framework, particularly if there is congruence between the organization's values and the social workers' code of ethics and especially if they are employed by an organization in their own faith tradition. Social work in faith-based organizations will probably raise difficult ethical issues for individuals, organizations and whole societies.
