My 'missionary philosophy'

My church has done a wonderful job of training up local leaders and investing sustained and creative energy into local evangelism, but we're only just getting going on the world scene. This means that I'm in the privileged position of being Crossroads' first and only missionary (so far!). We haven't inherited a backlog of missionaries who need to be managed and supported somehow: we just have me. This has given me the freedom to play with how things should look. Three things make up my 'local church-global mission' philosophy:

1. World mission should be part of the ordinary church life, because it is a command given to all (eg Mt 28:18-20). I'm keen to see it spoken about in ordinary Sunday sermons and weekly Bible studies; for most church partners to be involved in one way or another (prayer, encouragement or financial support); and for the missionary's ministry to be lumped in with other ministries that church members are involved in (for example, at Crossroads we have people doing uni and international student ministry and running a hostel for spiritual retreat). I'm not so keen on special world mission talks, committees, prayer groups and events because I think they give the impression that world mission is a niche interest.
   
2. World mission should be done with excellence, as if working for the Lord (Col 3:23-24). In spite of what I said above, I do recognise that there are some unique things about missionary work that require special handling. Because of this, I have got together an 'Advocacy Team' (aka 'Team Fiona') whose main role is to keep me on everyone's radar once I'm out of sight, as well as providing me with any special assistance or prayer. The 'Chief Advocate' who heads up that team is someone who I keep in close contact with and who is able to advocate for me and liase with supporters and missionary organisations. Part of Kate's role is to keep an eye on whether Crossroads is doing a good job, and part of Crossroads' role is to review my ministry and that of my Advocacy Team, as happens with other church roles.
   
3. World mission should be done with mutual respect and dependence. Obviously I'm hoping that I and my church will be able to help my Latin American church, but there is also assistance that they can provide to us. They can pray for us and teach us things just as we pray for and teach them, and we can get to know and perhaps even meet one another.

What do you think? Any suggestions?

You're a stubborn little thing aren't you

There's a good chance I'll end up in Chile. Here's a great video of some Chileans who are involved with the Anglican Bible college in the capital, Santiago. They begin by talking about life as a Christian in Chile and about cultural differences with Australia. From 6'30'' they talk about the Bible college.

Oh and September/October is looking more likely for when I'll be getting on that plane :) I'll let you know more as 'news comes to hand'. Now, didn't I say something about going away?

Christians in Chile from CMS NSW on Vimeo.

You ain't welcome

In case you've popped back to see if there's any news - there ain't none. But don't worry, I'll be sure to let you know once there is. For now, I'm busy learning Spanish, reading books about spiritual warfare and Latin American religion and culture, and working for my church. I've just got one more doctor's appointment to go before I finish my application - which has proved to be a long-winded process. Things will hot up again once I know where I'm going - there'll be finances to sort out, pamphlets to write, churches to visit, visas to get etc etc. But for now, if you wouldn't mind, I'd appreciate prayer that I'll:

• end up in a place (and working with people) where I can function well;
• be gracious and at peace throughout this time of waiting and negotiation;
  
• be passionate about the wellbeing of people in Latin America.
  

Don't let me catch you round here

just a little update for any stubborn readers. I'm pleased to say I've now finished my third and final year at Bible college. I plan to spend the next six months or so back home in Tassie, preparing to head overseas. This will involve things like: learning Spanish, finishing my missionary organisation application, gathering a group of people to support me while I'm overseas, reconnecting with friends, sorting out various logistical things and serving at my home church. I hope to get on a plane headed somewhere in Latin America in about July of 2011. So I'll see you then. Now get lost.

Go away

just 'baggsing' this address so I can use it for a second blog once I'm in Latin America. It won't be up-and-running for another year, so go away and come back later. I've got another blog that can keep you entertained in the meantime: http://chapterthe1st.blogspot.com/