Mission and Development

Rezensionen / Stimmen

This collection makes a valuable contribution to understanding developments in Christian mission and the links between mission and development activities, mainly in the Pacific island states. The authors write from the perspective of mission organisations associated with a variety of denominations about theology and practice, historical and contemporary engagement with development activities (including service delivery, community development and political movements), the links and distinctions between mission and evangelism, foreign and local churches, mission organisations and donor agencies. They claim that Christian missions make important and positive contributions to the achievement of development objectives but also, importantly, recognise and explore some of the contradictions and challenges. 'The relationship between religious practice and community development needs to be better understood. This collection offers revealing and timely insights into the complex and diverse ways that development and Christian mission have interacted over the last century.' 'This book offers a critical but constructive analysis of the intersection between the 'good work' of development initiatives and the specifically mission work of Christians and Christian churches. Using both historical and contemporary case studies, from a range of perspectives, the book gives a thoughtful, insightful and appreciative assessment of this intersection, and especially of the contribution of Christians and Christian churches and mission organizations. 'Secular' development is waking up to the longstanding and contemporary involvement of Christians in development initiatives, and this book is thus a timely and down-to-earth reflection.'