Fronse Pellebon Smith

Very insightful categorizations for folks considering ministry, mission in other places.

My wife Germaine and I value and are lifted up most knowing people are praying for us.

Good questions. 

Key question, does the community néed/want change agents from outside? If so are the agents aware/knowledgeable about community leadership structures?

Interesting topic, is it possible that "being set apart" has different meanings to different cultures in Christian environments? Can one ethnic reality cause different "hearing/ interpretation " of "set apart." 

Good information and advice. It is also important to 'listen' to facial expressions, voice tone, pitch, words used. Many people have different means of self expression based on their life experience and teachings. Animated conversations often reflect communication styles. It is important to listen to the words spoken more than how they are delivered.

Very good points. Congregations vary demographically. Age brackets, economic variants, social, political, culture capital, to name a few require assessment of in-congregation discussions and assessment before developing plans for community programs. Different generations have varied world-views. Thus there may need be multiple outreach strategies. Question: is the neighborhood changing faster than the congregation? Question 2: What do the young congregants think they can/should do? Seniors? 30, 40, 50 something's? etc. 

A very interesting discussion. As we continue to use language of inclusion and reconciliation, too often that discourse revolves around people of color NOT having resources, knowledge or means to witness the Gospel globally. The 'root' of race-differences is NOT necessarily economic. Rather the secular conversations about 'reconciliation' get tangled in our Christian language use and unfortunately quoting of Scripture is used to argue for or against 'in-Christ' brother and sisterhood. Our imperative should be to LIVE the Gospel at all times and in all we seek to witness for the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Well said Mike ! You make very salient points !

This conversation is great and I appreciate the dialogue and information. I am learning more than I 'thought I knew'!!

Thanks to all

Brother Daniel, Your plans sound feasible and I concur on most points. I would offer the concept of utilizing the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa, Univ of Stellenbosch, the Reformed Church in Zambia and Justo Mwale Theological College all who have active programs touching on your numbered items especially seminary, diaconal training and church planting. Working on-the-continent with established Reformed institutions and the URCSA will be efficient and practical.

You have thought well and shared your wisdom ideas and I thank you.

Brother Daniel, I'm not sure if modifications are needed. My key question is HOW a strategic, cohesive discussion can take place in the CRWRC and other agencies with business people who are CRC and other serious interested parties. For me I've learned to read as much as I can that is available from CRCNA about Mission and to trust their leadership to shape and guide members' participation. This said, it has not been easy and requires faith, trust and communication.

You know 'Business' thinking is different from the norm and too often structure has to be understood to navigate positively.

My emphasis has and remains focused on implementation that will build stronger African churches and denominations in Africa.

Philosophical or theoretical discussions I must admit are NOT my strong point. Strategy yes, the Great Commission yes, going and consulting in Africa yes.

In lay church language: I am not 'comfortable' with policy discussions, debates and meetings that will not uplift the Church in Africa. I am just being honest.