Global Humility: Attitudes for Mission

Hello and a warm welcome to our course on Global Humility based on the book written by Andy McCullough! We’re thrilled to have you join us on this important journey. In an era defined by unprecedented connection and interaction across borders, cultures, and perspectives, the way we engage with the world and its diverse inhabitants matters more than ever. This course is designed to explore a crucial mindset and skillset for navigating our interconnected planet: Global Humility.

Global Humility is a call to level up the training and focus of missionaries and cross-cultural workers so humility is placed at the core and foundation of all they do. Andy McCullough reminds us that pride and mission are polar opposites. Pride pollutes mission, the mission of Christ is humble mission. He asks: How dare we turn up with all the answers when we don’t even know what questions people are asking? Global Humility is a useful and provocative tool for cross-cultural Christian workers and candidates, for those involved in multicultural cities in their own nations, for sending pastors, and for anyone whose ministry or Christian walk takes them across cultural divides. Made up of four sections, Andy walks us through a better way of supporting and working with the people we encounter in mission situations and poses many questions and practical applications that could transform our mission and the lives of the people we meet.

Outline:

1. Introducing the Concept: What is Global Humility?
2. The Importance of Global Humility in Today’s World
3. What to Expect: Course Goals and Journey
4. Invitation to Begin

1. Introducing the Concept: What is Global Humility?

So, what do we mean by ‘Global Humility’? It’s not about diminishing yourself or lacking confidence. Instead, Global Humility is about having a respectful curiosity and openness towards others’ perspectives and cultural backgrounds. It involves recognizing that your own culture and experiences shape your worldview, but they don’t represent the only valid way of seeing or doing things. It’s the understanding that every individual and culture has unique knowledge and insights to offer. True global humility means acknowledging the limits of your own knowledge and being willing to learn from others, even when their views challenge your own.

2. The Importance of Global Humility in Today’s World

Why focus on Global Humility now? Because it’s fundamental to effective communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution in our globalized world. Whether you’re working in international teams, traveling, engaging with diverse local communities (like here in Nagoya or anywhere else), or simply interacting online, a lack of humility can lead to misunderstandings, prejudice, and missed opportunities. Cultivating global humility allows us to build trust, foster genuine connections, appreciate diversity as a strength, and ultimately, contribute to a more understanding and equitable world. It moves us beyond tolerance towards genuine appreciation and respect.

3. What to Expect: Course Goals and Journey

Throughout this course, we will delve deeper into the components of global humility. We’ll explore concepts like self-awareness regarding our own cultural biases, developing empathetic listening skills, understanding different communication styles, and appreciating diverse approaches to problem-solving. Our goal is for you to leave this course with:

• A clearer understanding of what global humility entails.
• Practical tools to recognize and challenge your own assumptions.
• Enhanced skills for interacting respectfully and effectively across cultural differences.
• A greater appreciation for the richness that diverse perspectives bring. We’ll use examples, reflections, and insights drawn from various contexts to make the learning engaging and applicable to your life.

4. Invitation to Begin

Developing global humility is a continuous practice, a journey rather than a destination. We’re excited to guide you through these initial steps. Thank you for committing your time to this vital topic. Let’s get started together on exploring the power and practice of Global Humility. Please move on to the next section when you are ready.

Questions for Lesson 1: Introduction

1. Understanding the Core Idea: In your own words, based on the introduction, what does “Global Humility” mean?
2. Clarification: The introduction mentions what Global Humility is not. What is one thing it is distinct from (e.g., lacking confidence)?
3. Relevance: According to the video, why is practicing Global Humility particularly important in today’s interconnected world? Can you list two reasons mentioned?
4. Benefits: What are some potential positive outcomes of applying Global Humility in interactions with others from different backgrounds?
5. Personal Connection (Reflection): Think about your own interactions, perhaps here in Nagoya or elsewhere. Can you recall a time (even a small instance) where being more open or curious about another person’s perspective (practicing humility) was helpful, or where it might have been beneficial? (No need to share specifics, just consider it.)
6. Course Expectations: Looking at the goals mentioned (like increasing self-awareness, improving listening skills, appreciating diversity), which aspect of Global Humility are you most interested in exploring further in this course?
7. Readiness: What is one key takeaway or main message you got from this introduction?

Book  link: https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Andy-McCullough/dp/1910786853