This is the introduction to a special number of A Contrario that I coordinated with Daniel Meier. It has three main parts. First it discusses humanitarianism, in attempt to define it and summarize some of what people have been writing on the topic recently. In the second part it considers the place of faith-based organisations in humanitarianism, as well as historical and other linkages between humanitarianism and religion (e.g. missionary work). Third, it summarizes the articles that will be published in the special number.