Courses

This course is ahead of its time. As yet, it seems, no one has directly addressed the question of a global theology of ministry. Yet we are living in a globalized world in more ways than when the term was coined. The nations have come to us in North America (and particularly here in Canada), and often they are bringing new forms of Christianity and novel conceptions of church and ministry with them. Of equal and growing importance is the question of how biblical, and theologically sound paradigms of ministry can be proposed among the nations, as well as in the west.

What are the transcendent elements of a theology of ministry, what are the locally determined approaches, and what are the principles that should condition our theology of ministry in a global and diverse context? Particularly what are the theological foundations and the issues of praxis in settings where Christianity is a minority religion, in a world of religious multiplicity or surrounded by a monolithic majority religion? How does Christianity speak to increasing secularity or increasing (non-Christian) spirituality? This course seeks to provide the appropriate input by which the student may formulate their own theology of global ministry and incarnate it within their local context.

Knowing

• Identify biblical components of a theology of ministry that are essential to both local and global contexts.
• Explore the church’s relation to local context, culture, and the kingdom.
• Consider the multifaceted nature of global ministry and develop strategies that are both theologically sound and practically effective in diverse contexts.

Being

• Appreciate the richness of different traditions and perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and harmonious approach to ministry and theology.
• Develop a greater sense of empathy and compassion for people from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.
• Live more deeply in the essence of Christianity while continually exploring the frontiers of their belief system.

Doing

• Consider ministry praxis and theological reflection through the lens of global contextualization.
• Develop cultural sensitivity, sustainability, and justice, ensuring that their ministry practices are respectful and beneficial to the communities they serve.
• Navigate ethical dilemmas, intercultural communication barriers, and the impacts of colonialism with a thoughtful and strategic approach.