Holistic Hope: Integral Mission for National Transformation 

Integral Mission offers a holistic approach to ministry, especially valuable in areas with social, ethnic, or religious tensions. By addressing spiritual, social, economic, and political needs, it helps build bridges and promote reconciliation. Sensitivity to cultural and religious diversity is key, as is involving local communities in the process. 

Integral Mission encourages the Church to be a visible expression of God’s love and justice in the world. When faith communities actively engage in issues like poverty, inequality, and conflict resolution, they model Christ’s compassion in tangible ways. As communities see the Church addressing real-life challenges with integrity and care, it opens doors for deeper relationships and long-term transformation. 

Angelo* is one of our CoMPs in Sri Lanka. He works with an organisation actively engaged in supporting the community holistically, particularly in regions that are rural and where churches are persecuted, and Christians are treated as outsiders within their own communities. Here, integral mission not only means building resilience within the church community through resources and training but also fostering understanding and cooperation within the community.  

Angleo shares the story of Pastor Prabhu*, who saw a deep need for child protection within his village. He took part in the comprehensive training for child protection held by Angelo’s team with the objective of initiating awareness programs in his area and proactive safeguarding measures. As the other villagers participated in these initiatives, they saw how Prabhu cared for the well-being of all their children. The program enabled each of them to be part of a supportive community and build a safer environment for their children and young people especially. 

CoMP Anu* works with a mission organisation in Nepal that focuses on mission training, building and supporting newer church communities and connecting local churches, in the hope of reaching those who are yet to learn of the gospel. They also work on community development among children and marginalised communities – work that impacts lives through inclusive educational opportunities and scholarships. They have seen education to be an empowering tool, helping children and families overcome socio-economic barriers and enabling academic and professional success. 

Anu shares the story of fifteen-year-old Sonu* who has been a part of one of their tuition centres since the age of six. She lives in a slum area in Nepal with her siblings and parents. Often, as the sole provider for the family, her father must go door to door begging for food and money to provide for his family. They see education as a way out of the poverty and their only way of survival in a harsh world. Sonu is the eldest child in her family and feels the weight of the responsibility and duty of having to take care of her family too early in life. She helps her mum with cooking and the household chores and understands the challenges of having to provide for the family.  

Due to a lack of finances, she has never had the opportunity to study in great schools or enrol in after-school classes that can enhance her learning. Yet, she works hard and is determined and focused when it comes to her studies. She finds the teachers at the tuition centre helpful, generous and caring. She is grateful for the educational and financial support and the “second home and family” it has become to her. She says that the centre keeps her moving forward and motivated to grow and provide for her family. She dreams of success and making her family proud. She also looks forward to being able to help others like her, in the same way that she has received support. 

*names changed to protect privacy