For all people

de Viggo Mortensen, Else Marie Pedersen, Peter Lodberg

This is a Book about the unique challenges that religion, especially Christian theology and the Christian church, faces in today's changing world. Central to the new world situation is the reality of globalization. Just what does the interconnectedness of the world mean for the process of Christian theology? Does globalization have implications for the way Christians and churches ought to act? These chapters by scholars from different contexts and continents -- Africa, Europe, and North and South America -- answer such crucial questions by exploring from various perspectives the relation of globalization to Christian mission and ecumenism. The title of the book is key to its intent. First, it is written "for all people," who now find themselves living in a postmodern, globalized world. Second, it reflects the nature of Christianity, which, from its very inception, has understood itself as a universal faith guided by Jesus' Great Commission. Third, the title reflects the character and career of Viggo. Mortensen, a Christian leader and teacher who has always tried to be a theologian for all people, consciously open to the particularity and challenges of the times. Thus, in attempting to build bridges between different cultures, in being open to the realities of the world and responsible in relation to the victims of the day's order, and in keeping alive the idea of and working for a united humanity, this volume not only represents a fitting tribute to Mortensen, a highly respected friend and theologian, but also suggests new ways of shaping a world for all people. Book jacket.