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WHEN YOU CROSS CULTURES - World Evangelical Alliance

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ORIENTATION OF CANDIDATES<br />

113<br />

Together with these methods there are also other considerations like<br />

language immersion and maximum exposure, full time disciplines and personal<br />

motivation. Candidates must be committed to language study. Only by knowing<br />

the language well can cross-cultural workers identify with the heartbeat of the<br />

people they seek to befriend. And, from the perspective of the people, knowing<br />

their language demonstrates that the worker is truly committed to them.<br />

3 Perspectives on <strong>World</strong> Missions<br />

This aspect will help the candidate widen his vision and shows him how<br />

his assignment is related to God’s overall plan. It includes an overview of world<br />

missions: biblical, historical, cultural and strategic perspectives. There is actually<br />

a “Perspectives Course” on Missions. A shorter version is the “Kairos Course”.<br />

These courses are valuable for any follower of Christ and not just for those<br />

preparing for the mission field.<br />

Mission candidates need to be aware of the changing face of Christian<br />

missions with a great percentage of countries closed to conventional approaches.<br />

With the collapse of Communism, there is also the rise of paganism and religious<br />

fundamentalism. Urbanisation is a modern day phenomenon affecting urban<br />

and rural strategies. There is also an increase of cross-cultural workers from<br />

Asia, Africa and Latin America.<br />

4 Perspectives on the Mission Agency<br />

The candidate sees the work of his agency as part of what God is doing<br />

through the Body of Christ. Approaches also differ in various parts of the world.<br />

Ministry philosophy can also be discussed. One major aspect which could be<br />

covered and also developed in On-field orientation is that of interpersonal<br />

relationships among co-workers. This aspect can also be discussed in relation<br />

to cultural stress.<br />

5 Family Responsibilities<br />

This aspect deals with family matters faced by the candidate with<br />

obligations in two different countries - his home country and his mission field.<br />

Asians often have obligations to parents and extended family members.<br />

Family responsibilities include the following:<br />

Implications of Living in Two Different <strong>World</strong>s<br />

The Extended Family<br />

Children and Education<br />

Financial Obligations<br />

Family Stresses

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