Institute for Mission and Intercultural Studies

Over the past decades Christians in Asia have become deeply committed to global mission and more aware of the globalization of the church. Many diverse people groups, each with their own cultures, with their own distinct ways of seeing and hearing, come together in this “global village”. The growing sense of responsibility toward people of other cultures has resulted in the development of many mission programs. However, adequate education programs to prepare Asian Christians for this immense task have not kept pace with the needs. The purpose of the Institute is to provide a challenging mission and intercultural studies program that will effectively prepare those who are called into global mission from the churches in Hong Kong, as well as those students who come to Hong Kong from other parts of Asia.

Crossing the frontier from one religion or culture to another requires cross-cultural study and the study of the contextualization of Christianity in different cultures and interfaith relationships. The objective of the Institute is to prepare students to engage in a holistic mission ministry encompassing proclamation, service, sensitivity to cultural differences, and advocacy for social justice. The target groups for the Institute’s work include LTS students, both local and international, the Hong Kong churches, churches in the China Area and the Chinese Diaspora, and global churches, especially Asian churches.

The programs of the Institute include providing an emphasis in mission studies for various degree programs, the inclusion of required courses in mission for all degree programs, and short-term cross-cultural experiences as part of many degree programs. A shortterm diploma course, with an emphasis in mission studies, will be offered for those who want to be tentmakers or supporters in mission fields or organizations but do not wish to pursue a degree program. Scholarships will be provided for international students in the
Th.D. mission-emphasis program. Research will be carried out through various means as well, with the intention of contributing to scholarly study of mission.

An Advisory Committee consisting of Mission Directors of the LTS member churches will play an active role in advising and guiding the work of the Institute. A Coordinator will work with a Faculty Resource Committee in carrying out the work of the Institute. For further details on the activities, program, and structure of the Institute for Mission and Intercultural Studies, please contact the Coordinator.