In the midst of intercultural life, Pastor Kevin Haah admits that he, like anyone, has ethnocentric tendencies that are potentially hurtful to others. He discusses that through a posture of humility and attentiveness, a leader can learn from mistakes and help with healing. As a leader he can help shape the church’s environment so that God’s transforming grace is engaged. How does this process unfold? → On p 206, Branson discusses topics that require special attention as one develops intercultural communicative competencies. First among a list of six topics is oneself. The leader can ask questions like, “What are the cultural patterns you bring to the conversation?” Or, “Do you understand how you communicate respect or disrespect?” This is related to the practice of “getting on the balcony” (p 215) in order to see how we affect others in our ongoing interactions. The leader’s reflections are important steps in developing intercultural communication skills. Read through the six topics on pp 206-208 and begin to imagine how you might engage with your own ethnocentric communication tendencies. Discuss what you are thinking with others.
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Mark Lau Branson, Ed.D.
Mark is the Homer L. Goddard Associate Professor of the Ministry of the Laity at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, where he teaches courses in congregational leadership and community engagement.
Juan F. Martínez, Ph.D.
Juan is Associate Dean in charge of the Center for the Study of Hispanic Church and Community and Associate Professor of Hispanic Studies and Pastoral Leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California.
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That is the purpose of our writing: to help men and women in our churches to see differently and to gain the skills and competencies needed for multicultural contexts. We want to encourage church leaders to create environments that make God’s reconciling initiatives apparent in church life and in our missional engagement with neighborhoods and cities.
Mark Lau Branson, Ed.D. &
Juan F. Martínez, Ph.D.