Multilingual Church

Many of us have experienced being in a situation where another language is being spoken. This can be an exciting adventure, but also hard work! Through his book, Jonathan leads us to reflect on the importance of languages used in church. He encourages us to see that a vision for a multilingual church is founded in biblical principles. He recognizes the challenges this presents and takes his reader on a journey through different options a church might use, the pros and cons, and questions to reflect on. Jonathan writes in an engaging and accessible way, helping us to see how we might ensure our churches reflect our local communities in the fullest sense, in a way that honors God and all his people. Emma Billington Head of National Development, Welcome Churches Have you ever dreamed of being part of an intercultural church where everyone feels welcomed, needed and known? If so, then you'll have found yourself wondering how can we be a healthy church family when we speak different languages? In Multilingual Church, Jonathan Downie doesn't sugar-coat the challenges, but, as an expert guide, he shows the paths you could follow and warns of the potential pitfalls. More than that, he presents a compelling, biblically grounded vision of how multilingual churches are a powerful witness to the power of the Gospel in our divided and diverse communities. I heartily commend this much needed book!' Adam Martin National Director, Intercultural Churches UK Jonathan Downie has written an honest easy-to-read guide for churches and Christian communities who desire to become a place of belonging, where people of all backgrounds feel welcome. Jonathan acknowledges that every church has different challenges to becoming multilingual and rather than being prescriptive he provides research-based tools and suggestions. I appreciate that Jonathan's approach is not just to church leadership but to individuals wanting to apply this approach in their everyday life. While this book is about the power of being welcome and belonging, it also presents a challenge and an invitation. I appreciate Jonathan's anecdotal writing style backed by serious research. You will be able to read it swiftly but the questions it raises will linger. Are we willing to be those who truly serve those who we say we want to reach? After reading this book you'll be ready to roll up your proverbial sleeves and respond ""yes"" as you think through how to make the church look more like our multiethnic communities and most importantly like Heaven! Rev. Teresa Parish, PhD Founder KITE Ministries