In this we have seen what God requires of individuals, communities and structures. The biblical witness is our starting point and reference for mission and gives us the sense of our own identity. We need constantly to seek the insight of the Holy Spirit in helping us better to discern where the gospel challenges, endorses or transforms a particular culture. The catholicity of a church is enhanced by the quality of the relationships it has with churches of other traditions and cultures. This has implications for mission and evangelism and calls for respect and sensitivity for churches already located in the place concerned.
Competitiveness is the surest way to undermine Christian mission.
Equally, aggressive evangelism which does not respect the culture of a people is unlikely to reflect effectively the gracious love of God and the challenge of the gospel. Local congregations are called to be places of hope, providing spaces of safety and trust wherein different peoples can be embraced and affirmed, thus manifesting the inclusive love of God. For congregations in increasingly plural societies, inclusion of all cultural groups which make up the community, including those who are uprooted, marginalized and despised, is important. Strengthening congregations through a spirituality which enables them to face the vulnerability involved in this openness is critical. Small steps which involve risk and courage can break through barriers and create new relationships.