Imagine establishing a ministry or project in another country without understanding the language or culture! No real communication! Lots of mistakes! That’s why, at Global Mission Partners, we prioritise getting to know the locals. We make every effort to form locally led partnerships to achieve the best outcomes in sharing the gospel in word and deed.
Being locally led originates in Jesus’ attitude of humility. Jesus comes as a servant, focusing on the transformation of others, and asks his followers to do the same (Philippians 2:1-5, Mark 10:42-45, John 13:1-17). This means relating to partners as equals made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). It means listening to communities and trying to follow their lead, doing things their way, and pursuing their goals rather than ours.
The temptation to believe we are the saviour when attempting to do good in the world is a trap we can fall into unless we look to the true Saviour, Jesus Christ. His model of servant leadership (Mark 10:42-45, John 13:1-17) points us to come alongside communities rather than dictating solutions.
At Global Mission Partners, we aim to collaborate with local leaders, help them build their capacity, and enable them to shape their projects and ministries – all in ways that are specific to their unique circumstances. We work together like one body with different parts, each important and interdependent (1 Corinthians 12).
Sometimes, this is through one-to-one training online or visits to partners and communities. We also send resources, arrange local training, help set roles and tasks to stretch staff and organise a partner conference every three years.
A few years back, we recognised a need to enable partners to reflect on their organisation, its structures and its aspirations. This was the next step in supporting local leadership. So, we embarked on a research project , which we titled “Know the Locals”. A generous bequest to Global Mission Partners made it possible.
To conduct the research, we asked an external International Development Consultant to facilitate multiple two-day workshops. Leaders from church partnerships and relief and development projects were among the 85 participants attending the workshops in their various countries.
The workshops facilitated transformative discussions on organisational identity, leadership development, strategic direction, and well-being. They aimed to provide a collaborative environment for partners to align their goals and visions, fostering a sense of optimism and encouragement about the potential for change and growth.
Philippa, the consultant, was inspired by our partners and the range of ways they serve their communities in various contexts. She shared, “The adaptability and generosity of the people I met were truly inspiring.”
Effective development and mission work should adapt to local contexts rather than apply one-size-fits-all solutions. The workshops gave us insights into tailoring our support, building deeper relationships, and enhancing our partners’ impact.
Thanks to your support, we can continue to focus on fostering our partners’ initiatives, prioritising the development of leaders, ensuring solutions are culturally appropriate and sustainable, and, most importantly, locally led.
Colin Scott,
Manager of International Partnerships