Dr. Pauline Settles, associate lecturer at the Gillian M. Bediako Centre for Primal and Christian Spirituality (CEPACS) at the Akrofi-Christaller Institute of Theology, Mission and Culture has emphasised the central role of language in effective cross-cultural witnessing, describing it as a gateway to deeper engagement in missions.
She made these remarks during her presentation on the topic “Navigating Cultural Differences: Skills for Cross-Cultural Witnessing” at the maiden edition of the Home and Urban Missions (HUM) Conference 2025, currently ongoing at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.
In her session, Dr. Settles highlighted how language is intricately woven into the fabric of culture, arguing that without learning the language of a people, missionaries may struggle to genuinely understand their worldview and communicate the gospel effectively. She encouraged participants to invest in language and culture learning resources as part of their missional preparation.
Using Acts 10 as a scriptural foundation, Dr. Settles referenced Peter’s encounter with Cornelius to illustrate how overcoming cultural biases and embracing divine guidance can open doors for cross-cultural ministry.
She also addressed the importance of examining personal attitudes and prejudices when engaging in mission work. According to her, unconscious biases can hinder witness and limit the reach of the gospel in diverse cultural contexts.
Dr. Settles shared a communication model with attendees, explaining that successful cross-cultural communication requires intentional steps, including curiosity, observation, and the courage to ask clarifying questions.
The ongoing three-day HUM Conference, which began on July 10 and ends on July 12, 2025, features workshops, prayer sessions, and strategic discussions aimed at equipping participants to reach marginalised and unreached people groups in urban and peri-urban centres.
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