THEO2520 Exploring Cross-Cultural Ministry

This topic provides foundational knowledge related to cross-cultural ministry. Students will develop critical skills in: evaluating biblical and theological underpinnings for cross-cultural ministry; understanding changes to the cultural landscape of Australia over time, and the implications of these for ministry in the church and engagement with wider society. Possible practices for growing a genuinely intercultural church community and developing knowledge and skills for effective leadership and pastoral care within a multicultural church will be considered.

This topic aims to:

• Identify a range of perspectives on cross-cultural ministry
• Examine the significance of culture and cultural identity
• Investigate historical, contemporary, and possible future changes within Australian church contexts, in response to social and political developments in the broader community
• Provide students with the analytical skills to identify and critique practical models for leadership, mission, ministry, pastoral care and worship in multicultural contexts

1. Reflect theologically on ministry and mission in contemporary multi-cultural Australia
2. Identify strategies for developing community across culturally diverse groups
3. Demonstrate a theological knowledge of the importance of culture