Background
Diaspora ministries are those that are serving amongst various ethnic groups who have internationally relocated or been displaced to major urban centres in the West. In recent years, it has been recognised that people do not need to travel overseas to be engaged in cross-cultural mission. It can often take place down the road, or even next door. The world has come to us. In response to this reality, Pioneers has been focusing upon building diaspora ministry teams around the world. There are numerous teams operating throughout US cities, and there are already 7 teams working in major Australian centres. These teams are providing various practical services for different ethnic communities (ESOL, driver training, trauma counselling, etc.) and therein sharing lives and the gospel with them.
Exploring Diaspora Ministry in NZ
As part of our vision for seeing diaspora ministry teams launched within NZ, we were pleased to have Phil Malone (Diaspora Ministries Coordinator for Pioneers in the Oceania region) recently visit from Australia. It was encouraging to spend the week with Phil engaging with various believers, churches and other community groups around Auckland who are already actively involved in serving different diaspora communities. There are many ongoing discussion about ways in which Pioneers might be able to support and supplement these efforts.
A Request
We are interested in learning about other initiatives taking place amongst immigrants and refugees taking place around NZ. Therefor, if you know of, or are involved in ministry amongst a diaspora group, we would love to hear about it. Please contact us to chat further.