Asian-focused MA approved as CofE training pathway
Asian-focused MA approved as CofE training pathway
We are very excited to share that CMS Pioneer Training’s Asian Christianity-focused MA has been officially approved as a training pathway for ordinands in the Church of England alongside our African pathway.
by Nuam Hatzaw,
This is incredibly significant because Church of England ordinands will now have the opportunity to delve deeply into the richness of Christianity in Asia, alongside their formation for priesthood in the Church of England.
Today’s communities and parishes are increasingly diverse. The Church needs to embrace this plurality if it is to live out its calling as a church for the people, relevant and responsive to contemporary British society.
CMS’s specialist focus on mission in cross-cultural contexts would therefore equip ordinands with the skills and knowledge required for effective and sensitive cross-cultural ministry through our multicultural learning spaces.
Reflecting diversity
Ordinands on this pathway will gain knowledge and understanding on the rich legacy of Christianity in Asia and its modern-day expressions and contributions.
Moreover, the subjects covered on this pathway not only reflect the rich diversity of the Christian faith worldwide, but also the present-day diverse and multicultural contexts in which ordinands will be serving.
Ordinands training with CMS through our Asian Christianity pathway will therefore be well-equipped to minister effectively and sensitively to the wide-ranging needs and issues of their local parishes, where topics such as social cohesion, belonging, and tolerance, are becoming all the more important.
They will also be able to better witness to this diverse context with the knowledge and training they have received regarding the global expression of the Christian faith.
Embracing identity
Finally, this is a watershed moment particularly for clergy of Asian heritage. This pathway gives said ordinands the freedom to fully embrace their identity as those who are both Asian and Christian – a dual identity which is, sadly, seen as a contradictory state of being by some.
This pathway seeks to correct that narrative and encourage ordinands of Asian heritage to cherish the long and impactful legacy of Christianity in Asia, as well as the unique gifts that Asians Christians bring to the global communion of believers.
It will enable the training of ministers that more accurately represent the diversity already present within the global church.
Crucially it will also allow those in our congregations to see themselves and their identities and experiences reflected by the people who minister to them and who are responsible for the care of their spiritual lives.
We are also pleased to have Rev Mark Nam (Teahouse, SPCK, and Vicar of St John, Woodley) serve as chaplain for students on the Asian Christianity pathway.
A vocal advocate for inclusion and care of Asian clergy in the Church of England, Rev Nam brings a wealth of personal experience and commitment to the welfare of students and ordinands on the programme.
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