Interactive classes are great teachers.
Tonight's class was a good reminder and lesson regarding cultural respect, social interactions and directional philosophy.
Respect & Social Interactions: As a (somewhat) average young adult who has grown up in the multicultural country of Canada, I have so often fallen prey to the mindset that anyone who has come to Canada has or will adjust their cultural perspective in favour of our Canadian "culture" (which in and of itself is near impossible to define). Playing the game in class reminded me if why it is so important to not only acknowledge that everyone has a different cultural background but to also respect it and our differences. A persons culture as well as life experiences defines where they come from, who they are and who they will become. If we as church planters come into a community and completely disregard the cultural circumstances of the people that make up that community then we risk disrespecting the individuals and groups. Rather than peaking curiosity, interest or support for the church plant we open the door to ridicule, prejudgement and disdain. We must respect one another's cultural background, especially in our interactions, and spend time learning about each other in non-invasive, friendly manners.
Philosophy Food for Thought: Andrew brought up a great point in class about knowing where your church plant's directional philosophy lies. Are we planting a new variety of "church" for other Christians? Or are we looking to plant a church that is there for all people, to be the light of Christ in the community around us?
J. Wideman
Good blog Julie Anne. One of the things I've been wondering about is whether or not we will not need to do some of these cross-cultural exercises as we encounter more and more immigrants and visitors cross-cultural interaction will just come naturally thanks to practice.
ReplyDeleteI think that these exercises are valid, though more necessary for some than others. I find that when we intentionally try to be aware of and more sensitive to the various cultures around us through these kinds of exercises it helps to keep our curiosity peaked.
ReplyDeleteJulie Anne, I got a nice chuckle at the cartoon. It's so true though! I liked how you included Andrews thought at the end of your blog. It reminded me of how James and Jared kept mentioning the need to bounce ideas off of other people. I think throughout the semester we will will get a clearer understanding of what kind of Church we think is best for Kitchener, through the ideas and discussion we have with one another!
ReplyDelete