OC-US

 

Leading Your Church
through
Intercultural Transformation

  Frequently Asked Questions from Church Leaders

Prepared by Bob Rasmussen

OC International, US Ministries

 

WHY THIS GUIDEBOOK? The purpose of this booklet is to provide a basic overview of what is involved in transitioning to an intercultural (or multi-ethnic) church.  It is intended for church leaders who are curious about or considering a transition of this kind.

What do you mean when you say “Intercultural Church”? Is it really that different from the average church?

Many practitioners in this area of ministry prefer different terminology. Among them are: multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, diverse, international, multi-racial, etc. Each of these brings helpful nuances. In this guidebook, we primarily use “intercultural” for its emphasis on relational interaction between cultural groups.

The intercultural church we are advocating is one in which the congregation as a whole intentionally includes people of different ethnic and economic groups into one body of believers.

This is not a temporary thrust or another program to be added to others. Rather, it becomes a part of the fabric of the whole church. The average church today says “anyone is welcome to come.” This often means that people who come can be different but they are expected to fit in with the way things are already being done. This is mere assimilation.

In the intercultural church, there is a commitment to reaching out and embracing people from different backgrounds. Church life as a whole then adjusts to include and build relationships across cultural lines. This is accomodation.

As a result, the congregation continually grows in grace and sensitivity. Lives are enriched by friendships with those of different cultures. Misunderstandings are talked about and reconciled.

This is why the transition to intercultural church is often called a “transformation,” because it changes the church completely. For that reason, leaders contemplating this transformation need to count the cost ahead of time. It is a long, but rewarding, journey. Leaders must come to the conviction that it  is essential to move in this direction.

 

What is the “Biblical mandate” for intercultural ministry in the local church?

 A multitude of Scripture passages make it clear that the intercultural church is God’s idea. When God lays these truths on a believer’s heart, they become an exciting calling. And because the ministry has many challenges, these truths provide vital motivation to persevere. There are various ways in which the Biblical mandate is presented. Here are some foundational truths:

1. At the tower of Babel, mankind’s societal success would have caused their prideful self-destruction. For their own good, God confused their language, which led to different cultures (Genesis 11). God’s strategy has worked beautifully. Cultural diversity is here to stay.
2. While God chose one nation, Israel, as His special people, He has always sought an inheritance from among all the nations. The calling of God’s people Israel was to be a blessing and light to the nations (Gen 12:1-4).
3. During Jesus’ earthly ministry, two alarming developments emerged. First, the majority of the nation Israel failed to acknowledge Jesus as their Messiah (Romans 11:7-31). At the same time, Jesus reminded the world that God sought faith from every nation. His house was to be a “house of prayer for all nations” (Mk 11:17).
4. Jesus intentionally crossed ethnic and gender barriers when He talked with the Samaritan woman at the well (Jn. 4:1-26). He emphasized that His family consists of anyone who believes in Him (Mk. 3:31-35; 1 Pet. 2:9-10)
5. On the eve of His crucifixion, Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers who would follow (Jn 17:21). This is to serve as evidence that the Father sent the Son.
6. Before Jesus ascended, He stressed the abiding priority of bringing the good news to all the peoples and nations in the Spirit’s power (Matt. 28:18-20), starting with our own “Jerusalem” (Acts 1:8).
7. The inauguration of the church on the Day of Pentecost demonstrated its multi-ethnic nature (Acts 2:1-13). Cultures were honored by being addressed in their own languages, which became avenues for carrying the gospel to every people. The first recorded church conflict had cultural ramifications, and the solution was a multi-cultural team of helpers (Acts 6:1-7). The council of Jerusalem wrestled with the implications of ministry in a multi-cultural world (Acts 15).
8. The Apostle Peter is clearly transformed from a mono-cultural to intercultural leader through his vision and subsequent interaction with Cornelius. As leader of the Jerusalem church, Peter validates the inclusion of all peoples in the church (Acts 10-11).
9. The Antioch church is immediately highlighted as a multi-ethnic church with a heart for the nations (Acts 11, 13).
10. Paul, the “Apostle to the Gentiles,” is called by God to develop the doctrine and practice of intercultural ministry. Among the most notable truths given in his writings are: (a) the revelation of the “mystery” that the Gentiles are equally a part of the church, Eph 3:1-9 (b) the breaking down of the Law as a separating wall, and creating of “one body through the cross, Eph 2:11-22, (c) the interdependence between parts of the body of Christ as mutually important contributors, 1 Cor 12:4-27, (d) the priority of incarnational ministry so as to win all peoples to Christ, 1 Cor 9:19-23, and (e) the practical imperative of loving others in order to preserve the unity of the body, Eph 4:1-6.
11. Even as the chosen nation Israel was to have been a light to the nations, the spiritual riches of the church, consisting of all peoples, will provoke Israel to jealousy, resulting in a great day of mercy and salvation for Israel (Rom. 11:11-36).
12. The culmination of God’s plan for the nations is envisioned by the Apostle John, where “a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb…” cry out “with a loud voice, saying, ‘Salvation belongs to our God...’” (Rev. 7:9-12). Worship in the colors and flavors of the nations is clearly something God enjoys, not only in heaven but now on earth!

When one is gripped by God’s priority on reaching all the nations, it is impossible to retreat to ministry-as-usual. And when we see God deliberately drawing believers from every nation into His one and only body, the Church, it becomes difficult to justify local churches which remain unmoved as diverse peoples gather in nearby neighborhoods.

To retreat to the comforts of mono-cultural churches is out of sync with Jesus’ prayer for our unity. And to surrender to the segregated norms of society runs counter to the barrier-bashing work of the cross.

 

What are the major aspects of work related to intercultural ministry?

 Depending on the situation that presents itself, various approaches are required. Here are five major approaches to intercultural ministry:

1. Immigrant ministries   Here you are reaching out to new arrivals who are trying to get settled in their new country. They have needs for housing, language and culture learning, hospitality, etc.
2. Planting  In this case, the church planter envisions a multi-ethnic church from the outset. He seeks to build a diverse leadership team from the start, and lays out the intercultural priority from the beginning.
3. Transforming   In this scenario, a basically mono-ethnic church is operating well enough, but the leadership catches the vision for an intercultural church and transitions the church. This guidebook has basically spoken of this approach (although principles can be applied to the others as well).
4. Revitalizing (or Rebirthing)   This is similar to the Transforming situation except that the church needing revitalization is nearly dead. This is therefore a rescue operation. The church can either try to resurrect itself, or can close its doors and turn the facility over to new leadership with a new vision.
5. Merging     In this scenario, two mono-ethnic (of different ethnicities) churches “get married” and form one, new multi-ethnic church. This approach can be tricky, but has proven successful in some cases.

 

How can I tell if God is calling our church to become intentionally intercultural?

Here are some indicators to pray about and discuss with those who are close to you and your ministry.

1. Your heart is gripped by the Biblical mandate
2. Your neighborhood has become increasingly diverse even as demographics in the country are changing.
3. You believe you have a responsibility to reach those who are located near your church building, and in your city.
4. You question whether it is right to move to the suburbs instead of ministering to the people who have moved into the church neighborhood.
5. You have begun to see people from different ethnicities visit the church services.
6. Key leaders in the church have begun to catch a vision for intercultural ministry.
7. Someone challenged our church to think this way and it resonated with many in the congregation. Your denomination may also be encouraging intercultural ministry.
8. Some realize we can do God’s mission work locally as well as globally.
9. You know your church needs to make some bold steps of faith, and suspect this is it.

 

Is this a good time for our leadership to pursue this direction?

The leadership should be positioned for a major change before embarking on transition to intercultural ministry. Some factors to consider:

1. Senior pastor stability and vision; has senior pastor been at the church at least a year, and does he plan to stay at the church for another five years? Does the senior pastor have a vision for intercultural change?
2. Leadership board stability and unity. Is the board united? Will there be a major change in board personnel in the next six months? Major changes in board leadership can scuttle decisions made by previous boards.
3. Cross-cultural experience  Have a few key members of the church, especially the pastor, had positive experiences in crossing cultures already? Leaders need to have some prior experience in cross-cultural sensitivity (not just travel). Better to get some of these experiences before venturing on a major change for the whole congregation.
4. Core group willing to lead.  Is there a diverse group within the church who would like to make this their focus for the foreseeable future?
5. Unity.  Are there major church wounds over recent disagreements or events? Has the congregation made healthy transition in worship styles, or have they handled it without maturity?
6. Financial stability. The church should not be a major debt. Giving should be regular and adequate. Giving should not be dependent on the large gifts of a few members (especially those likely to resist change).
7. Leadership board resiliency. Is there flexibility among the leaders, or rigidity? Is the leadership team of the church prepared to accept criticism from some of the membership for taking this new direction?
8. Biblical conviction.  Does the leadership team share a conviction that the Scriptures call the church to this kind of ministry?
9. No other option. It could be that your church faces closure if you do not begin to intentionally welcome those of ethnic and economic diversity.

 

Is our congregation willing to make a major change?

It is important to facilitate conversation within the church about the demands and opportunities of intercultural transformation. This should be an honest self-assessment phase which should precede a commitment event (drawing a “line in the sand”).

Leaders should think through the readiness of the congregation. Here are some sample areas to explore:

1. What is the current cultural diversity as a church? If diversity is happening, how is the congregation reacting?
2. How adaptable have members been to changes in worship style?
3. To what extent do members currently have friendships across cultural/ethnic/economic lines?
4. How adaptable are members to different practices regarding time, promptness, cleanliness, decision-making, politics, etc.?
5. What changes would need to be made for our facility to be conducive to multi-ethnic ministry, such as additional signs? Would members be willing to fund those changes?
6. To what degree are members ready to truly accommodate (not just assimilate) others of different ethnicities? Is our church even eager to make this transition?
7. What are members’ attitudes toward those who are different (Suspicious? Curious? Accepting?)
8. Are most members willing to grow in cross-cultural competency?
9. How willing are members to be concerned about the needs of others as opposed to having their own needs met?
10. Are parents open to diversity in the youth group?
11. Would there be concerns about the potential of mixed marriages within the church, or attracted to the church?

 

What opportunities (and responsibilities) are presented by our changing city?

As a part of the preparation stage, you will want to look closely at the population changes going on in your city. One or more members can accomplish much of this. A variety of methods can be used (again, assisted by the coach):

1. Online demographic research
2. Visiting local government and business officials
3. Talking to other church leaders in the city
4. Visiting with leaders within refugee and immigrant communities
5. Discovering the history of the city and the underlying forces that prompt population trends and movements
6. Community survey by church members
7. Guest speakers at church meetings who share re: cultural issues, immigration, etc.
8. Prayer walks in the nearby areas.
9. Informal intercultural meals and fellowships

What are you trying to discover as you conduct this research? You are trying to uncover unmet needs in the community that the church could meet. Here are some sample areas to explore:

1. What is the cultural make-up of our community (and how does it contrast with the cultural make-up of our church)?
2. What are the future trends of people coming to our city? Who is moving in around our facility?  What are the neighborhoods like, where we live?
3. What are the family and generational issues of minority families in our city?
4. What are the needs of immigrants coming here?
5. What are other churches doing, if anything? What is not being done that needs attention?
   
   

What are the essentials for having an intercultural (or multi-ethnic) church?

Every intercultural church is unique and should not try to fit anyone’s mold. And since the church is for God’s glory and not men, the goal is to pursue His leading most of all. Most churches pursuing this direction would point to the following indicators of effective intercultural ministry. Here are some considerations:

1. What would you consider an appropriate goal for your church as far as ethnic diversity is concerned? Some practitioners suggest the goal of no more than 80% of the congregation to be from one ethnic group. Does this look possible in your situation?
2. What kind of intercultural relationships would you like to see in your church in the future? Some churches begin by sharing their sanctuary with another ethnic group, but grow in their desire for intentional friendships across cultural lines.
3. For your church to reflect the diversity of the community, what kind of diversity should be reflected in the leadership and up-front presenters? Does it seem important that people feel their perspective is represented in leadership decisions?
4. How would you like to see dependence on the Holy Spirit, commitment to the Biblical mandate, and a clearly stated intercultural vision as integral to your church life?
5. How do you feel about the staff modelling intercultural relationships personally?
6. Conflict is experienced in any church. What skills would be needed in order to resolve conflicts of a cross-cultural nature?
7. How would you see minority groups included as an integral part of church life and not merely an afterthought?
8. Wouldn’t you love to see the church mature to the point where people grow in mutuality and interdependence? It is a mark of church health when difficult issues are not avoided but talked about for greater understanding.
   
   

How long does such a process take, and what are the costs?

It is important to realize that taking the path of multi-ethnic ministry is not like a program that you add on to several others. If it is to endure and transform, intercultural ministry really needs to become a part of the fabric of the church. For that reason, you won’t want to think of completion of the process. Many churches have been pursuing this course for many years; they are still growing in understanding.

There may well be financial costs, such as interpretive equipment, more signs, additional screens/projectors, and more staff. But other “costs” must be counted as well.

1. Do you foresee many members objecting to newcomers or changes in the staff or services? Some churches, but not all, see some people leave a church because they are uncomfortable with the changes.
2. People from different economic classes often bring needs with them. How do you see your church positioned to have ministries of compassion?
3. Different cultures usually bring misunderstandings and even conflicts. This can be an added burden on everyone, especially the elders and staff.
4. Can you see yourself adapting to the various needs of others? Multi-ethnic churches often involve more spontaneity and even confusion. Things don’t run as efficiently or promptly.

But consider some of the benefits.

1. Can you see the vibrancy afforded by richness of culture? Multi-ethnic churches are exciting places to be!
2. Think of the personal connections your members would gain by knowing people from distant lands. How would you like to pray for other countries, and even visit them, with new friends in your own church?
3. How would you feel about children and youth in your church growing up with a healthy view of cross-cultural relationships rather than a prejudicial one?
4. Wouldn’t it be terrific if the church became a natural place to spawn intercultural friendships rather than staying segregated from those who are different?
5. Can you imagine what it would be like to see other nationalities calling your church their home? Imagine them getting excited about bringing their friends to enjoy the warmth of the fellowship there!

 

How could we actually get started?

Based on the experience of others, here are some specifics in getting started:

1. Many have found it helpful to visit a multi-ethnic church to experience it.  Arrangements can be made to spend an entire weekend in the church meetings and hanging around with the staff.
2. An intercultural team could be appointed to carry the major responsibility of researching the issues and making recommendations to the church leadership and congregation.
3. A coach could be engaged to help guide the pastor and intercultural team.
4. Initial and occasional preaching is important to cast the vision and maintain commitment.
5. Many churches have found it helpful to have a commitment event where the congregation has a chance to embrace the new vision. This often solidifies the new direction.
6. Periodic events, such as cultural celebrations, multi-ethnic potluck meals, programs, etc. can be held to build appreciation for diversity.

 

What structural options do we have to choose from?

It is best when different ethnic and economic groups are welcomed as equal and contributing members of the congregation. In this approach, congregational life draws forth grace and mutuality as all learn to serve the others. There are many structural models for accomplishing this. In fact, each situation should be tailor-made to suit the particular needs.

Many have found that a process of studying the Scriptures while considering the local context should precede a decision on what model of multi-ethnic church to pursue. A coach can be very helpful in this regard. Also plan to visit several churches that have similar situations to yours. Talking to leaders can prevent you from making unnecessary mistakes.

 

How do you deal with different cultures where some people don’t understand English?

The “dominant” language group (such as English, Korean, etc.) in an intercultural church must not assume everyone in attendance understands what is being said. Rather, the church needs to be sensitive to attenders who are not proficient in their language. Also, it is good when you can keep older attenders (who still speak their mother-tongue) together with younger attenders (who are comfortable in the dominant language). Churches handle this challenge in a number of ways, for example:

1. Interpretation as the sermon is given
2. Simultaneous interpretation using radio-wave headsets
3. Shared worship time after which a large language group (like French speakers) meets separately for their sermon.
4. Multiple screens with words projected in different languages
5. Cluster interpreters in parts of the sanctuary

 

How do small groups fit into intercultural ministry?

It is best to say that an intercultural church needs a variety of small groups. Primarily, small group meetings facilitate the building of relationships across cultural lines. Informal settings, especially over food, calm apprehensions and increase understanding.

There is difference of opinion as to the place of language-specific small groups. Some leaders feel they detract from integration by reinforcing cultural differences. Others see them as valuable when balanced by sufficient intercultural interaction. Here are some values seen:

1. For new immigrants who don’t know the language of the host culture, small groups can be their only means of assistance, fellowship and learning. Such groups can lead into ESL classes.
2. Since people learn best in their mother-tongue, discipleship groups in relevant languages may be the most effective way to deal with deeper issues of living for Christ.
3. People in many cultures form opinions in community (rather than individually, as in western society). Therefore issues need to be discussed within cultures, and opinions formed in community. In addition, the hard work of intercultural relation-building needs the encouragement of others of the same culture. These needs can be met in language-specific small groups.

There is value to intercultural small groups as well.

1. Since we want to encourage friendships across cultural lines, small meetings in homes provide the best venue for doing so. Food is a great bridge-builder.
2. Newcomers from new cultures may be daunted by the large gathering. The chance to meet others in smaller settings may be the only thing that gives them courage to keep coming.

Balance between cultural and intercultural groups should be sought continually. Those in cultural small groups could move toward intercultural groups. Forming of cliques runs counter to the goal of intercultural ministry.

 

What would the entire transformation process look like?

At the risk of introducing more questions than answers, here is the way some experienced leaders recently described a way a local church might proceed toward intercultural ministry.

• Biblical theology of intercultural church
• Understanding the diversity of the local context
• Vision for a new kind of ministry
• Observation of resources inside and outside the church
• Progressive corporate understanding of theology and implications
• Assessment of church readiness (cultural competency)
• Paradigm (model) decision and strategic planning
• Implications for staffing and creating a welcoming environment
• Capacity for building intercultural fellowship
• Building trust for reconciliation
• Comprehensive inclusiveness in all ministries
• Missionality (active community presence)
• Ongoing learning, experience, and evaluation

It should be stressed here that this is not a program that comes and goes, nor does it proceed at a predictable pace or order. It is a long-haul pursuit with many stops and starts.