The Church Mission Society

The Church Mission Society (CMS) is the largest and most influential British Protestant missionary agency, and its bicentenary in 1999 is being marked by a collection of historical and theological essays by an international team of scholars. The volume re-assesses the classic centenary history of the CMS and the strategic vision of Henry Venn, and explores the close links between the CMS and the Basel Mission, women missionaries, and regional studies. It makes a significant contribution to the literature on the indigenization of missionary traditions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Church Missionary Society, now known as the Church Mission Society, has been a dominant force in British Protestant missionary work for over two centuries. To commemorate its bicentenary in 1999, an international team of scholars has assembled a collection of historical and theological essays, including renowned figures such as Lamin Sanneh, Kenneth Cragg, and Geoffrey A. Oddie. This comprehensive volume offers fresh perspectives on the society's rich history and strategic vision. It reevaluates the classic centenary history written by Eugene Stock and delves into the visionary ideas of Henry Venn, one of the key architects of the Three-Self theory of indigenous churches. The book also explores the close connections between the CMS and the Basel Mission, the role of women missionaries, and regional studies on Samuel Crowther's work in the Niger mission, Iran, the Middle East, New Zealand, India, and Kikuyu Christianity.

This volume makes a significant contribution to the growing body of literature on the indigenization of missionary traditions. It appeals to historians of the missionary movement, non-western Christianity, theologians engaged in religious pluralism, dialogue, and Christian mission. The essays provide valuable insights into the historical development, theological foundations, and impact of the Church Missionary Society on the global Christian community.

In conclusion, the Church Missionary Society's bicentenary is a momentous occasion, and this collection of essays serves as a tribute to its enduring legacy. By reexamining its history and exploring its theological significance, the volume contributes to our understanding of missionary work and its role in shaping the world Christianity.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032340371