Description

The future of Christianity is in the “majority world”—that is, in Asia, South America, and Africa. And while the church is indeed growing rapidly in Asia, it also faces unique challenges, such as contextualizing the gospel in diverse cultures and engaging with the other major religions of the world (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Confucianism, and Daoism). Tribalism and nationalism compete with globalization, stretching church and mission leaders to extremes, resulting in unprecedented levels of burnout, stress, and even resignations. In our VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world, the pressing need is for a new paradigm of adaptable leadership. Fuller’s new Doctor of Ministry cohort offers contextually dynamic and adaptive approaches that are paramount for leaders across Southeast Asia and the Asian continent.

What is the mission of the local church in the world today? How do pastors and lay leaders assess the effectiveness of Christian mission in Asian contexts? How can the church address contemporary challenges such as interfaith issues, social and political issues, migration, and discipleship in multifaith contexts?

This three-year cohort, launching Summer 2025, will present a groundbreaking paradigm for church and mission leadership: polycentric leadership, which is founded on a trinitarian theological paradigm. Working collaboratively, pastors and mission leaders will learn new and sustainable ways to lead missionally within their local and regional cultures. Particular attention will be given to spiritual formation, disciplemaking, and adaptive, collaborative leadership in the Southeast Asian context, enabling leaders to thrive in ministry and accelerate mission.

Students will rediscover the role of the church in Asia; gain a deeper understanding of mission in all its biblical, historical, cultural, and strategic dimensions; and evaluate how local churches and NGOs can better serve in complex situations.