By Kendra Flory
The May offering from the Ventures in Christian Discipleship program at McPherson (Kan.) College will be “The Ministry of Jesus, Ubuntu and Cultural Competency for These Times” led by LaDonna Sanders Nkosi, director of Intercultural Ministries for the Church of the Brethren. The course will be held online in two evening sessions May 4 and May 11 at 6-8 p.m. – 8 p.m. (Central time).
As followers of Jesus, we have a responsibility to foster communities and relationships of respect that honor and welcome people from across various cultures and backgrounds. This course explores biblical examples, the ministry of Jesus, and current texts to provide helpful skill building in increasing our cultural competency, respectful multicultural engagement practices, and beloved community building as described by Martin Luther King Jr. in Kingian Nonviolence and Philosophy. Poetry, video, journaling, reflections, and conversations together will be key components as participants explore and build their cultural competencies as followers of Jesus in these times.
Participants are asked to read at least the first three chapters of the book Everyday Ubuntu: Living Better the African Way by Mungi Ngomane and to keep a cross-cultural skill-building journal. The book can be purchased through Brethren Press at www.brethrenpress.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=0062977555.
In addition to directing the denomination’s Intercultural Ministries, Nkosi is a poet, global traveler, cross-cultural community builder, and senior leader of the Gathering Chicago and the Gathering Global Network. She is currently a doctoral candidate and Wright Scholar in African Centered Ministries, Religion, and Theology at McCormick Theological Seminary.
Continuing education credit is available for $10 per course. The registration process includes the opportunity to pay for CEUs and to give an optional donation to the Ventures program.
Learn more about Ventures in Christian Discipleship and register for courses at www.mcpherson.edu/ventures.
— Kendra Flory is advancement assistant at McPherson College.
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