As people of faith, we are called to participate in God’s mission, sharing the love of Jesus Christ through words, deeds and our presence. Without mission, a church is a social club or an empty building. Yet mission with the simple intention of helping another community is not enough and, in fact, can do great harm. Engaging in mission near or far requires deep reflection and learning. We must develop a critical awareness of the world and how we “show up” in different communities, even those close to home. We learn to see that the root causes of the painful realities underscoring the urge to participate in God’s mission often are linked with our own social/cultural group.

 Consider the purpose and potential impact of mission projects:

•     Why do you think this community needs your church’s help?

•     What does your church expect to accomplish?

•     How does your church’s social/cultural group provide privilege and power?  How might your privilege and power - individually or as a group - impact the host community?

•     Will the mission activity be ongoing, or a one-time action?  What are the underlying, root  causes of identified needs?

•     How have local, national and international dynamics or interests harmed the community or country?

•     How have colonialism and structural racism created systems of injustice in the host community for country?

Be good partners.

  Seek a “bridge person” to connect your church group with the host community.

  Work together on mutually agreed upon goals. Participate in shared reflection and prayer.

  Tell the story that the mission partners would tell about their own community.

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Article’s content adapted from an article written by Ellen Sherby, Coordinator Equipping for Mission Involvement, “Doing the Deeper Work”, MISSION OUTREACH, Spring 2021.

Blessings and peace, Terry