If it stops, it is a betrayal of its own heart. A change of heart There are differences between the previous missionary movements and the current one. The primary difference is the approach to conversion. In previous times, there was the notion of missionary activity seeking to displace one religion with another, says Airhart. Now, missionaries have taken on a different view.
Emphasis is placed on social work, such as building hospitals.
There is no expectation to convert, as conversion can cross over to aggressive tactics and the whole stereotype of proselytizing. Airhart points out, though, that not all denominations can be lumped together into this directional change of attitude. The Methodist movement of the 1800s, for instance, was much more about helping the poor then, say, the Southern Baptists of today. Doug Springer, executive director for the Christian Missions Resource Centre in London, Ontario, says in the last few years the churches have recognized their social responsibility. It s a more balanced Christianity than 50 years ago, says Springer.