Latest report of the Study Process

Download the June 2009 report of the Study Process by the Research Coordinator as an MS Word file here.

A list of the conveners of the main study themes is available for download (MS Word file) here.

 

 

Essential to the work of the Edinburgh 1910 Conference, and of abiding value, were the findings of the eight think-tanks or `commissions´. These have inspired the idea of a new round of collaborative reflection - but focussed on the themes identified as being key to mission in the 21st century. A small but widely representative consultation held in Edinburgh in June 2005 identified key themes and these were further developed in subsequent rounds of email discussion. At a meeting in May 2008, conveners were identified from those who had expressed interest in the process to lead study groups on each theme. Each study group is now working to integrate the work on these themes from around the world for a pre-conference publication and for discussion at the Edinburgh 2010 conference itself. Each study group will also disseminate its work in other ways appropriate to its process. Their publications will be listed on this site.

Following are the titles for each thematic study, an outline of the subject matter and key questions to be addressed. The suggestions provided are provisional - a starting point from which each study group is developing its particular approach. On each of the mission themes the aim is to gather, evaluate and share models and stories of good practice.

 

MISSION THEMES for the STUDY PROCESS

1. - Foundations for mission
2. - Christian mission among other faiths
3. - Mission and post-modernity
4. - Mission and power
5. - Forms of missionary engagement
6. - Theological education and formation
7. - Christian communities in contemporary contexts
8. - Mission and unity - ecclesiology and mission
9. - Mission spirituality and authentic discipleship

 

It was recognised that a number of 'transversals' are needed, i.e. important themes which will run like a thread across all 2010 study themes. The development of transversals and their integration with the study themes is in process.

The following 'transversals' have been identified:

TRANSVERSALS

1. - Women and mission
2. - Youth and mission
3. - Healing and reconciliation
4. - Bible and mission
5. - Contextualization
6. - Subaltern voices
7. - Ecological insights

 

 

Recognising the worldwide character of the Church today, institutions, networks and agencies in different parts of the world are contributing to the process in whatever way is best suited to their particular circumstances. Through the Edinburgh coordinating office and this central website, the study of the above mission themes and transversals is developing through diverse contributions from around the world.

You or your institution, backed by its governing body, can get involved by by contacting the Edinburgh 2010 Research Coordinator, Dr Kirsteen Kim (k.kim@leedstrinity.ac.uk) who will put you in touch with the conveners of the study group working on the theme that most interests you.

By pooling resources we can collaborate to bring a range of perspectives to a topic which no institution can achieve alone. Existing networks, conferences, colloquia, etc. are encouraged to devote part of their programme to consideration of one or more of the 2010 mission themes, and feed them into the study process. Churches and mission agencies may wish to offer case studies of particular situations where significant mission engagement is taking place and which are of relevance to this 2010 initiative. In all cases, we invite your PARTICIPATION AND PRAYER!