05.09.2024

Booklaunch "Mission - still on?"

Seven of the 16 authors of the book "Mission - still on?", 2nd from left: Claudia Währisch-Oblau. Photo by: Naomi Simanjuntak / UEM

Thea Hummel, Claudia Währisch-Oblau and Sarah Vecera in conversation. Photo by: Naomi Simanjuntak / UEM

Rev Dr Andar Parlindungan, recieving guests from Indonesia. Photo by: Naomi Simanjuntak / UEM

Daniel Njikeu, former UEM South-North Volunteer and today an active church musician, studying Theology to become a pastor. Photo by: Naomi Simanjuntak / UEM

On 3 September, the provocative new book "Mission - still on? - Why we need post-colonial perspectives" was presented. On 192 pages, the editor, Rev Dr Claudia Währisch-Oblau, Head of the Evangelisation Department of the United Evangelical Mission (UEM), together with 16 international co-authors, illuminates the complex and challenging aspects of post-colonial mission. The book is in German language so far, an English translation is on its way already.

According to the editor, mission is a movement of God's holy spirit that transcends all human programmes, plans and claims to power. Postcolonial mission means giving up power, allowing change and expecting God's action in the world. Währisch-Oblau describes a mission that is no longer the project of rich churches from the global North, but a worldwide movement of people who allow themselves to be set in motion by God's spiritual power - a movement from everywhere to everywhere, in which everyone is learning.

Book presentation and lively discussions

Around 60 interested guests attended the book launch and experienced a stimulating evening with exciting conversations and discussions. The event took place on the premises of the UEM Archives and Museum Foundation, which allowed for a special connection to the historical exhibits on missionary history. This location provided the ideal setting to reflect on the past and future of mission and to discuss the importance of a post-colonial perspective.

In his welcoming address, Rev Dr Andar Parlindungan, UEM General Secretary, spoke about the significance of the book for mission in the 21st century. Ruth Atkinson, Publishing Director, gave insights into the history of the book's creation and emphasised the diversity of perspectives that characterise the book.

Under the moderation of Thea Hummel, Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator of the UEM, the editor and five of the 16 co-authors of the book then presented their experiences and insights on the topic of "mission". Pastor Dr Elizabeth Silayo, Regional Service of the UEM, and Richard Aidoo, who both live in Germany as missionaries from the Global South, called for migrant Christians to be taken seriously as partners. These perspectives are important in order to strengthen the churches in Germany in their endeavours to have an impact on society with the Gospel. Katharina Haubold and Justin Sathiskumar reported on new forms of church that they are developing together with others. "We don't plan for the people in our neighbourhood, but with them. After all, God has long been with those who are outside the church," emphasised Haubold. Sarah Vecera, Global Education Coordinator with a focus on anti-racism work, criticised the fact that international mission is still far too strongly influenced by the idea of white saviourism.

The evening not only offered participants the opportunity to learn more about the ideas and visions of a post-colonial mission, but also to share their own views and experiences. The positive response and lively discussions among the guests at the closing reception reflected the great interest in the topics covered in the book and emphasised the relevance of a new, diversity-conscious mission. The evening was accompanied by music from Daniel Njikeu.

The book "Mission still on? - Why we need post-colonial perspectives" is now available in stores and invites readers to take a critical look at the role of mission in today's world.