Why Us? Latins in Global Missions
By Rachel
Posted in: Strategize
Latin Americans woke up to the missionary call at the end of the 1970’s, and their contribution has been expanding ever since. Back then, the growth of the church in the Southern Hemisphere was not yet a main issue and it was unnoticed by most but for a few voices. Much more unnoticed then – and for some this is still the case – the growing missions participation of those churches.
Today there are over 10,000 Latins serving in cross-cultural missions inside and outside of Latin America, according to information given by COMIBAM International (Mission Cooperation of Iberoamerica).
To begin with, I want to highlight that the rising of the Latin mission movement (or by the case any other movement from the South or the East) is not to be seen as if it is time for the church in the North and the West to do something else. Neither can this be regarded as an economic issue by which the role of the West has now switched to being a provider of money while others work and get things done. On the contrary, this is God’s given time – a new scenario that calls for the whole church to join hands, hearts and resources to see the reaching of all nations, groups and languages. May this be the first time in history where all of the church (South, North, East and West) is present and committed to see God’s mission realized. This communion in missions will bring glory to God, blessings to the church, hope to the nations, and may be part of the fulfillment of Jesus’ prayer for unity in John chapter 17.
Something else is worth notice. Although for the purpose of this article I use the word “Latin”, I’m doing so in a wide sense in order to encompass people from Mexico, Central America, Spanish speaking Caribbean and South America (also to include Hispanics in North America to a greater extent). Many people have realized that there are similarities among “Latins” but we cannot bypass the rich diversity in history, ethnicity, culture, economy, etc. of each country. Likewise, the development and vitality of its missions movement varies from place to place. As a way of example, the more advanced countries in this regard are Brazil, Costa Rica, Argentina (they just celebrated over 25 years of missions involvement) and El Salvador.
Latins have been equal partners for many years in the Great Commission. This will continue to be the case for years to come. The days ahead in missions are for multicultural teams...maybe at some point the larger participation will come from Latins, Africans and Asians. With this in mind, let me share some features trying to respond to the question: Why Latins?
1. Because the Great Commission is for the whole church
A short reply will be: Why not us? Being in mission with God is His purpose, calling and desire.
2. Because of their willingness to adapt
You will find Latins working and thriving in all kinds of contexts, situations and ministries. Mission leaders have constantly told me over the years that Latins are very good to interact with people and to adapt to the country in which they serve. Latins are very sensitive to cultures.
3. Because of their level of commitment
Generally the process to send a Latin to the field is slow, difficult and full of challenges. Without a rooted commitment, most will never make it.
4. Because they are creative
Latins have learned to face problems and limitations and this gives the surplus of looking at things from other perspectives and ability to make an important contribution.
5. Because they are willing to learn
Latins are aware of their need to be trained. They tend to have a learning attitude that is a great asset.
6. Because of their understanding of the spiritual dimension of the work
Latins know that there is much more than just what is seen, touched or heard. They tend to be sensitive to the spiritual reality and needs that other people may overlook. They are willing to discern and engage in the spiritual warfare that may be involved during their service.
7. Because they value relationship and community
Latins tend to be less individualistic, and they put more emphasis on relationships. They are able to give themselves to the task, but their focus is on the person.
8. Because they have experience in the church
They come to the field with experience in being members and even leaders of their churches. This will help them when it comes to church planting.
9. Because of their passion
Latins tend to be recognized mainly by this characteristic, and it is important but there is more to that.
10. Because they go without a threatened past
Latin missionaries come from countries without a colonial or imperial history.
They are not perceived through political, economic or ideological prejudices. This helps them to be welcomed and establish rapport with people that have a common past.
11. Because they see mission as a whole
The Latin missions movement emphasizes the proclamation of the message of the gospel, Christ as the Lord and Savior, discipleship and church planting. At the same time, Latins, strive to manifest the works of the gospel trough Bible translation, linguistic and literacy, health, sports, community development, relief, education, agriculture, etc.
Latins are committed to continue to love and serve God together with their bothers and sisters from all around the world, until everyone knows!
by Daniel Bianchi
The author is an ordained Baptist pastor, Member of the International Board of Directors of Wycliffe Bible Translators and member of the Executive Board of COMIBAM International. He is married and a father of two and lives in Buenos Aires, Argentina.