WHEN YOU CROSS CULTURES - World Evangelical Alliance
WHEN YOU CROSS CULTURES - World Evangelical Alliance
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