A paradigm for global mission leadership : the journey of the Wycliffe Global Alliance

Abstract

The research question explored in this thesis concerns how globalization affects the missional journey of the Wycliffe Global Alliance (WGA) and how this is influenced by paradigm shift theory applied to the missio Dei. Together, these contribute to a theoretical model for a new paradigm for global mission leadership. The research is conducted through a qualitative enquiry of the journey of WGA. Its journey involves 100+ organizations from over 60 nations. These factors influence how WGA is developing leadership with a global mission mindset. Unique factors that inform the research and its methodologies include literature reviews, an analysis of WGA s practices and processes, and case studies from within WGA. These include its missiological consultative processes, as well as a grounded theory investigation of WGA s leadership team s personal leadership philosophies. Important concepts that enlighten and enrich the study include: missio Dei and missional, globalization, and paradigm theory. Each contributes to understanding the journey of WGA. Furthermore, the journey is influenced by other ideas including the generous funding of God s mission; and the influences of spirituality, friendship, community and polycentrism in global mission leadership. The research draws from broad sources and is presented through missiological and theological perspectives. The findings inform the paradigm, which is described with phrases, concepts and themes derived from the entire research. The paradigm also informs missional movements and organizational structures that can become global in their viewpoint and actions.