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A five-day consultation on “Evangelism in Theological Education and Missiological Formation In Africa” drew some 25 participants who explored what it means to live out authentic Christian witness within secular, multicultural and multi-religious contexts.
The gathering, hosted by the theological faculty of Stellenbosch University in South Africa and held there from 22 to 26 July, was third in a series that has also included one in Europe in 2012 and in North America in 2015.
“We all enjoyed a wonderful moment of mutual sharing and learning in the historic academic setting of Stellenbosch,” said Kyriaki Avtzi, World Council of Churches (WCC) programme executive for evangelism. “The numerous vibrant expressions of discipleship and formation on evangelism in the continent of Africa compose a profoundly promising and hopeful landscape for the future of Christian witness in the wider region of Africa.”
The consultation was inspiring, challenging, affirming and encouraging, agreed Dr Janet Corlett, vice-moderator for the WCC Commission on World Mission and Evangelism. “A huge strength of the consultation was the generous time for discussions both in the sessions and over meals — enjoying a rich hospitality. We have discerned some important themes and topics to help in our preparation for the 2018 World Mission Conference.”
The meeting was rich in dialogue, and the diversity of participants brought an intense understanding of education and formation related to evangelism, reflected Rosinah Mmannana Gabaitse, a participant from Botswana. “The latter must evolve into life-affirming impetus. Listening about evangelism in the midst of religious hostility reminds us of the call to minister even in the face of destruction.”
Understandings of the practice of evangelism were as numerous as the churches and institutions present, observed Rev. Silishebo Silishebo, a member of the WCC central committee from Zambia. “It was exciting to see how church doctrine determines and influences the theology and practice of evangelism. The need for different churches to partner and network to greater harvest in evangelism has been evident.”
Participants agreed that the denominational and religious map of Africa seems to be both challenging and promising for the renewal of mission and evangelism.
David Xolile Simon was the local South African host for the consultation. “The diverse experiences of the participants made this a unique learning process in ecumenical formation of practitioners and academics in ecumenical thought and practice in Africa today,” he said. “We are looking forward to further partnership and networking on the African continent and globally.”
