Guiding Principles for All WELS Cross-Cultural Ministry

Abstract

This comprehensive essay, prepared by the WELS Multicultural Mission Committee, offers guiding principles for cross-cultural mission and ministry in urban North America. Drawing from biblical foundations and practical experience, especially in Milwaukee, the paper addresses challenges such as ethnocentrism, cultural misunderstanding, and communication barriers. It emphasizes the importance of building trust, understanding worldviews, and adapting preaching, teaching, and worship to the host culture. The essay outlines strategies for hearer-oriented communication, culturally sensitive evangelism, and leadership development within diverse communities. It also explores the theological basis for human commonality, rooted in universal atonement and shared faith in Christ. The missionary is presented as an agent of change who must respect cultural systems while introducing biblical transformation. Practical tools for cultural research and engagement are provided, along with examples of culturally relevant illustrations and worship adaptations. The paper calls for humility, love, and faithfulness to Scripture in all cross-cultural ministry efforts. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)