Special emphasis is placed on personal development for ministry and experiencing ministry in the congregation. This course probes the cultural dimensions of Christian mission from an anthropological perspective. It is concerned with cross-cultural understanding, empathy and adjustment. Attention is given to anthropology of religion, communication, social change and contextualization of the church and its theology. This institute is held in June on the Philadelphia campus of Messiah College.
Students join experienced missionaries for immersion into cross-cultural Christian mission training.
Involves direct interaction with people of many different cultures, social settings and religious convictions. It is of the nature of Christian churches to be redemptively involved in the communities around them, gathering and discipling new people. Attention is given to the theological and spiritual dynamics and the social and cultural processes involved in envisioning, planning and leading for the growth of congregations and the formation of new congregations. The course includes field research and direct involvement with new and growing churches. The purpose of the practicum is first-hand exposure to mission.