Publisher's Synopsis
Description: The relationship of Christian faith and mission to other living faiths is a core issue in contemporary mission. In a world where plurality of faiths is increasingly becoming a norm of life, insights on the theology of religious plurality are needed to strengthen our understanding of our own faith and the faith of others. Even though religious diversity is not new, we are seeing an upsurge in interest on the theologies of religions among all Christian confessional traditions. One reason is the 'discovery' in the West of other religions living in its own midst and neighborhood. One may justifiably claim that no other issue in Christian mission is more important and more difficult than the theologies of religions. This will remain a major challenge for mission in a new century. 'Christian Mission among Other Faiths' was one of the Edinburgh 2010 themes. As part of the study process, position papers and case studies were invited from a wide range of contributors representing various theological positions, confessional traditions and denominational bodies. The quality of the studies and the variety they represent convinced us to publish in this form. The position papers are reflections on the theme by scholars belonging to Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Protestant-Conciliar, Protestant-Evangelical, Pentecostal, and Seventh-Day Adventist Churches. Among the case studies are articles on Christian mission among Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Jews, new religious movements, and folk or primal religions. About the Contributor(s): Dr. Lalsangkima Pachuau was co-convener of the Edinburgh 2010 study theme 'Christian Mission among Other Faiths'. He is Professor of the History and Theology of Mission and Dean of Advanced Research Programs at Asbury Theological Seminary, Kentucky. Ordained by the Presbyterian Church of India (Mizoram Synod), he has taught at the United Theological College, Bangalore, India. Dr. Knud Jørgensen was chair of the Edinburgh 2010 Study Process Monitoring Group and participated in the study themes 'Christian Mission among Other Faiths' and 'Forms of Missionary Engagement'. He is Adjunct Professor in Missiology, Communication, and Leadership at MF Norwegian School of Theology and Adjunct Professor in Missiology and Diakonia at Lutheran Theological Seminary in Hong Kong. From 1998-2009 he was director of the Scandinavian mission foundation Areopagos and from 2008-2010 dean of Tao Fong Shan in Hong Kong.
