Studies in the literature of intercultural communication, focusing on cultural contexts and barriers, with implications for Christian witness, lifestyle and relationships. Cultural anthropological issues will be examined to determine their application to a Christian view of intercultural ministry and the discipline of missiology.
Enables students to respond to theological issues encountered in intercultural contexts, such as Trinitarian concerns, bibliology, local theologies, syncretism and Pentecostalism. Students will work with personally relevant area-specific case studies and principles of "doing theology" in another context will be analyzed.
Examines the process of engaging followers of other religions with the purpose of facilitating effective communication of the gospel. Representatives serving in diverse religious contexts explore unique opportunities and challenges presented by various historical and contemporary religious environments.
Investigates biblical perspectives on social justice and the formulation of a scriptural foundation for the Church's response to human suffering with holistic ministries. Special attention will be given to racial injustice and global poverty. A prerequisite for Relief and Development Track.
Focuses on the biblical and theological understanding of non-Christian religions. Participants will examine critical issues facing the church considering biblical teaching and current conflicting ideas and theories in pluralistic societies. Attention will be given to diversity, truth and salvation in religions.
Facilitates leadership development vision by analyzing leadership selection processes, authority patterns and spiritual formation in a particular setting. Participants will be encouraged to develop culturally appropriate principles, strategies and methods of leadership training including church-based, institutional and non-formal approaches. Emphasis will be given to designing resources and building team concepts for long-term reproducible models.
The qualifying examination is intended to demonstrate an acceptable level of competency in missiology and the ability to apply the literature to a set of circumstances. The student is required to submit to the qualifying exam within a three-year period of the start of his or her first course and is eligible to take the examination upon successful completion of the following core courses: MSS 901, MHT 902, MCC 903, MCC 904.
Upon the completion, acceptance and successful oral defense of a written major applied project which integrates theory and praxis and makes a scholarly contribution to the practice of intercultural ministry, four credits will be recorded on the transcript. All participants working on the project phase will maintain a continued registration in the program.
