The Contexts of Mission

The Mission Contexts and Relationships Program Area is concerned with the contexts in which mission takes place today. These contexts may be local, global, geographical, cultural, ethnic, international, denominational, ecumenical, or any combination of these possibilities. Fully understanding these contexts helps The United Methodist Church provide "bread and fish" in more than 100 countries.

The Mission Contexts and Relationships Program Area analyses the context in which the church is called to mission and builds covenant relationships and mission partnerships to implement the goals of mission. In its evaluative work, it takes account of such factors as culture, religion, history, politics, economics, environment and demographics. It develops Christian ecumenical relations and explores dialogue with people of other faiths.