Written by: Liezl Erlank
Article source: JOY! Magazine
In South Africa, our vibrant rainbow nation bursting with cultural richness, the idea of “culture care” takes on a profound significance. Missional University (MU), an innovative online institution, is at the forefront of embracing this cultural diversity and bridging the gaps that often divide communities. Through its unique approach to culture care, MU equips individuals to not only celebrate cultural differences, but also learn to understand and navigate these differences in order to effectively communicate the Gospel.
What is culture care?
All human beings were created in the image of God, and were designed to be image-bearers that live out the profound truth that humans are God’s unique creation, called to represent Him in the world. It’s both a gift and a calling that shapes how we view God, ourselves, and others. Being an image-bearer relates deeply to culture because it frames humanity’s role in shaping, cultivating, and engaging with the world. Culture, broadly understood, is the collective expression of human creativity, values, relationships, and systems. Since humans are made in the image of God (imago Dei), our cultural endeavours – art, science, politics, education, family structures, and more – reflect aspects of God’s creative and relational nature. Culture care is the calling to faithfully reflect God as we represent Him using our God-given creative abilities.
Why culture care matters in South Africa
South Africa has a complex history and a multitude of cultural identities. From the vibrant Zulu traditions and the rich Afrikaans heritage to the colourful Xhosa rituals, South Africa is a melting pot of languages, customs, and beliefs – home to a wide array of ethnic groups, each with their unique practices and social structures. South Africa boasts 11 official languages, from the click consonants of Xhosa and Zulu to the Germanic roots of Afrikaans and the widespread use of English. This cultural mosaic extends to various tribal identities, shaped by a long history of migration and interaction. However, this diversity also presents challenges, including cultural misunderstandings, divisions, and cultural elements that are tainted by humanity’s sinful nature. MU recognises these challenges and aims to address them through culture care, fostering environments where cultural vulnerabilities are transformed into opportunities to authentically reflect the love and grace of God.
Bridging cultural gaps
MU’s approach to culture care is deeply rooted in the mission of God. By embracing cultural diversity as rooted in the image of God, students learn to communicate the Gospel in ways that resonate with different cultural contexts. This involves understanding and respecting cultural narratives and practices while integrating Biblical standards for creative integrity. Courses like Theology of Beauty, Theology of Media & Communication, Technotheology, Theology of Storytelling – all rooted in the Theology of Culture, as well Theology in Context and African Theology within Contextual Theology equip students with the skills needed to connect with people from all walks of life. Students are equipped to work in various communities and settings, using their training to promote cultural understanding and unity. Whether it’s through creative arts, such as media, digital visual art, film and theatre, music and ethnodoxology, or IT – these individuals can make a difference by celebrating and stewarding the cultural diversity around them.
Join the movement
MU’s courses are accessible from anywhere in the world, making it possible for anyone to join this movement of culture care. Whether you’re passionate about storytelling, scriptwriting, songwriting, visual arts, social media or intercultural communication, there is a place for you in this transformative work. By taking the missionality survey, you can discover your personal missional strengths and learn how you can contribute to God’s mission of culture care. It’s an invitation to become part of a community that values and nurtures cultural diversity, and promotes unity in a world that struggles with division, through a Gospel-centered approach.
Are you ready?
Are you ready to embrace cultural diversity and make a difference in your community? MU’s online programmes make it possible for anyone, anywhere, to participate in this vital mission. Whether you are in a rural village or an urban centre, our courses provide the knowledge and tools you need to engage with the culture around you. Your unique strengths and skills can be used to bridge cultural gaps and share the Gospel in meaningful ways. Join MU in celebrating the rich cultural diversity of South Africa and beyond, and become a steward of the beautiful world that God has created. Culture care is not just a concept; it’s a call to action to be an image-bearer representing God to the world around us. Let’s honour the diversity of human expression and contribute to stewarding creative expression under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Together, we can make a lasting impact and bring about positive change through the power of creativity that authentically participates in the mission of God.
This article is featured in the Feb/March issue of JOY! Magazine, which is now on sale nationwide! Pick up your copy from any leading supermarket, or read a digital version of this issue here: joygifts.co.za/product/joy-magazine-feb-march-issue-2025/
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Date published: 17/02/2025
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork from www.freepik.com
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