The MLA Handbook provides a standardized system for citing sources in academic writing. Understanding how to properly cite sources is crucial for avoiding plagiarism and giving credit to the authors whose work informed your own. This guide focuses on citing sources related to the concept of Christian charity, demonstrating how to apply MLA guidelines to diverse source types. We will explore different citation formats within the MLA framework and address common challenges encountered when citing religious texts and historical documents.
What is Christian Charity?
Before diving into the citation specifics, let's briefly define Christian charity. Christian charity, often described as agape in Greek, transcends simple acts of kindness. It represents selfless love, compassion, and generosity motivated by faith and a commitment to serving others, mirroring the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ. It encompasses material aid, emotional support, and spiritual guidance, reflecting a holistic approach to human well-being. This understanding of Christian charity is crucial when searching for and citing relevant sources.
Common Source Types and MLA Citations: A Christian Charity Focus
Here are examples of common source types and how to cite them using MLA style, focusing on resources relevant to Christian charity:
1. Books
Example: A book exploring the historical evolution of charitable giving in the Christian tradition.
Citation: Smith, John. Charity and the Church: A History of Almsgiving from the Early Church to the Reformation. Oxford University Press, 2020.
In-text citation: (Smith 2020, 45).
2. Journal Articles
Example: An article analyzing contemporary expressions of Christian charity in a specific community.
Citation: Jones, Mary. "Acts of Compassion: Understanding Contemporary Charitable Practices within Evangelical Communities." Journal of Religious Studies, vol. 15, no. 2, 2022, pp. 120-145.
In-text citation: (Jones 2022, 132).
3. Websites
Example: A website dedicated to a specific Christian charity organization.
Citation: "About Us." World Relief, www.worldrelief.org, accessed 15 Oct. 2023.
In-text citation: ("About Us"). (Note: If you are using a specific quote or piece of data from the website, include the relevant section or page as well.)
4. Religious Texts (Bible)
Example: A passage from the New Testament emphasizing charitable acts.
Citation: Matthew 25:31-46. The Holy Bible, New International Version. Biblica, 2011.
In-text citation: (Matt. 25:31-46). (Note: Abbreviate book names where possible, following standard biblical abbreviations.)
5. Chapters in Edited Books
Example: A chapter in a book focusing on a particular aspect of Christian charity.
Citation: Brown, David. "The Theology of Agape in Early Church Writings." Christian Charity in Historical Context, edited by Emily Carter, Routledge, 2021, pp. 50-75.
In-text citation: (Brown 2021, 62).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I cite a sermon or a lecture on Christian charity?
For a sermon or lecture, provide the speaker's name, the title (if available), the date of delivery, and the location (if relevant). If the sermon is available online, include the URL.
Example:
Pastor Johnson. "The Fruits of Charity." Sermon delivered at First Baptist Church, 10 October 2023, [URL if available].
How do I cite a passage from a commentary on a biblical text related to charity?
Cite the commentary author, the title of the commentary, the edition, the publisher, publication date, and the specific page number(s) where the commentary discusses the relevant passage.
Example:
Brown, Raymond E. An Introduction to the New Testament. Yale University Press, 2015, p. 275.
What if I can't find all the necessary information for a citation?
If some information is missing, provide as much detail as you can. Indicate the missing information with "[Not Available]" or a similar placeholder. It is better to provide partial information than to omit the citation entirely.
Where can I find more information about MLA style?
The official guide is The MLA Handbook, latest edition. Many university websites also offer detailed MLA style guides and tutorials.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for citing sources related to Christian charity using MLA style. Remember that accuracy and consistency are paramount in academic writing. Always double-check your citations to ensure they adhere to the most recent MLA guidelines.
