Ecodomy in mission: The ecological crisis in the light of recent ecumenical statements

Abstract

This research explored ecodomy in mission and gave a brief overview of the ecological dimension of mission. This was done in terms of the polarity between creation and end times, or a creation-centred and a redemption-centred approach. The two approaches were described by focusing on two themes found in the works of missiologist and ecumenical policy documents (<em>The Accra Confession, The Cape Town Commitment, and Together towards life � Mission and evangelism in changing landscapes</em>): the reorientation towards creation and the re-imagination of the eschaton. In terms of the reorientation towards creation, the research found that current developments in missiology reflect a major interest in the importance of ecological issues, offer a clear understanding that the Gospel is good news for all of creation, and demand justice towards the whole <em>oikoumene</em>. It affirmed that God�s mission is inherently creational and world-affirming. In terms of the re-imagination of the eschaton, the research found that the new life promised by the gospel is life in fullness, and includes the whole <em>oikoumene</em>. The reality that is already present in the reign of the risen Christ in his kingdom, structures and informs the life-giving mission of the church.