The Upstream Collective sees four key emphases in this movement toward effective missions in Europe and North America:
1. Developing a missional/incarnational missiology
We will develop materials to explore, challenge, incite and change ideas regarding missions. Besides speaking at conferences and seminars, we will regularly write articles, books, blog posts and more regarding global missional endeavors and opportunities.
While we are still learners ourselves, we believe that sharing what we have experienced in Europe will empower churches to be more missional in their approaches to ministry in their own communities and beyond.
2. Helping churches focus on sending a new type of missionary
We will assist missional churches to identify and equip their own people by offering coaching, consultation and virtual and live missions conferences.
In many instances, “missions” has been limited to seminary-trained, professional clergy. We believe it’s time to start emphasizing the sending of artists, business people, teachers, lawyers, nurses, coaches and Web designers: ordinary people who can relate to those around them in domestic and international settings, and who do so with the Great Commission in mind.
3. Returning the responsibility of sending to the local church
We will ensure the centrality of the local church by training within that context and by deferring to church leadership on matters of policy, support, strategy, qualifications, theology, finances, etc. We will purposefully limit our role to that of cultural/strategic consultants, aiming to help churches become involved in global missions from day one.
4. Encouraging creative platforms for entry into culture
We will encourage creativity and holistic approaches to international service by sharing ideas and networking with churches, businesses, ministries and non-profit organizations overseas. Involvement could include, for example, individuals working in the marketplace overseas, becoming involved in social action or developing a local focus on European immigrants living in North America.
What does that mean for you and your church?
