Technically it is not a word but while I am trying to come up with a word for my occupation I realize that words that define my occupation as a Missionary or a Pastor are some what out dated or carry with it meaning that don’t properly define what I do. Missionary, as one sent out from one country to another to share the Gospel and make disciples, would be the correct word for my occupation but it carries with it the idea of colonialism and dominance which is quit negative in today’s society. I am licensed as a Pastor and work in a traditional roll as a Pastor in the since of leading a Church or in my case co-leading a Church plant but I am not really a shepherd as that word implies biblically. Perhaps a more biblical term for what I do would be an Apostle as one who is sent out. But often that word is left to the first twelve Apostles and doesn’t really fit in today’s list of occupations. I think a word that is more contemporary would be fitting so I came up with this word, Missionalist, one who is sent to take part in the Missio Dei.
I know, someone else came up with this word first, I just found this blog while googling the word.
Could this work as a word for an occupation?
February 28, 2009 at 7:50 pm |
Hello Douglas,
I am also a Pastor,… of an Addictions Recovery Fellowship. I work at a Rescue Mission and my title is “Clinical counselor”. I went through Youth With A Mission training school (YWAM) for “Urban Missions.” I consider myself a “City Missionary” My Parishoners are the down and outers of society. Those who are in jail,or homeless on the streets and addicted to drugs.
My main vocation is that I am a “servant of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
God bless you brother.
March 2, 2009 at 8:43 pm |
I believe I’ve also heard the term “missiologist” (like anthropologist, sociologist). That is, someone who is studying and applying the concepts of missiology to the real world.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Missiology
March 6, 2009 at 5:00 pm |
Jesus was known by many names. He was called what the people named him. Wonderful councilor, savior, massiah, the chosen one. Then you have the Sons of Thunder James and John. (I think) Paul was called Paul. What do your people call you? Then go by that name. I’m called many names but none reflect my occupation. Enjoy whatever you are called. It’s a term of endearment. Perhaps the most important name is what God would call you? What we are is God’s gift to us. What we become is our gift to God. And God is all things to all men.
March 23, 2009 at 11:18 pm |
Wow, looking for a job title? Just, kidding… I understand what your thinking and how this whole thing looks in our current world. I personally, think a good title would be a Brother. Think of it like this, you (we) are called to help, comfort, support and occasionally beat up, our siblings whom we love in Christ.
I don’t think this would be a bad title, and it’s historical. Look how many times the apostles addressed each other as brothers in Acts and the Epistles. Current Catholic priests go by Father, why can’t we be brothers.
I hope all is going well my brother!!!
March 24, 2009 at 6:48 am |
Thanks for all the comments.
Of course I can say I am a servant, a friend a brother and everything God would call me but what I am looking for is a word that one would put a CV or resume’, a job description that someone who doesn’t speak Christianese might understand. Something outside the box.