Healthy, Resilient and Effective in Cross-cultural Ministry

Laura Mae Gardner

I love practical books by people who write from their own practical experience. This is one such book. The vast experience of the author and her husband is poured into a manual of member care that will equip anyone in a member care role, whether with an organisation or church.

The book is in three main parts. Part one looks at the vision for member care, including policies and proceedures for every aspect, along with an exploration of the roles that different parties play (i.e. organisation, sending church, field team). Part two focuses on the many practical challenges faced by those who care for others, including some great sections on conflict and moral dilemmas. Both of these sections have lots of practical examples, case studies, questions to ponder/discuss and helpful charts and diagrams. Part three includes appendices of practical tools like debriefing and assessment plans.

If you consider yourself a member carer, or if you want to explore any issues related to missionary wellbeing, then this is a great book to have at your fingertips.

Reviewed by Mike Frith

Mike Frith is the Founding Director of OSCAR. Prior to starting OSCAR, he worked as a pilot/engineer with Mission Aviation Fellowship where he spent time living in the USA, France, Switzerland, Madagascar and Uganda. He has been involved in working with, supporting, training and resourcing cross-cultural workers for over 25 years. He is married to Cheryl and they have two grown up children, Joanna and Will. Mike is also General Secretary of COST, a trust that gives grants to mission volunteers.