IAMS Assembly – 2026 Pretoria, South Africa

The International Association for Mission Studies (IAMS) will hold its 16th Assembly at the University of South Africa in Pretoria, South Africa, from July 17 to 21, 2026. This significant conference will be hosted by Africa IAMS.

The theme, “Walking Together in Mission: Facing Global Challenges for a Sustainable World,” encompasses two interconnected components that address the pressing issues of our time:

Walking Together in Mission: Contemporary Christian mission can be likened to the journey of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, as described in Luke 24:13-35. Their experience culminated in the profound realization of Jesus Christ’s resurrection; this journey not only led them to discover the risen Lord but also deepened their friendship in transformative ways. Christ’s abiding presence throughout this journey underscores the essence of mission as walking together, ultimately transforming participants into witnesses of a changed existence, filled with renewed purpose and understanding.

This concept emphasizes that global challenges cannot be effectively addressed by any single group, method, or generation. Instead, mission is inherently a shared journey that requires collaborative effort and collective wisdom. This notion resonates with the idea of “synodality,” which invites all members of the global church—who are, as pilgrims, journeying toward the Kingdom of God—to engage collaboratively in God’s mission, thereby enriching the diversity and depth of our collective experience.

Facing Global Challenges for a Sustainable World: In the current era, we are confronted with unprecedented challenges that demand a level of global and ecumenical cooperation never seen before. Ongoing conflicts, the relentless influx of refugees, and escalating global economic inequalities contribute to increasing political polarization, exacerbating tensions and fostering opposition to differing viewpoints. The climate crisis poses significant threats to the very foundations of life on Earth, intensifying existing divisive ideologies and fueling inter-generational conflicts that seem increasingly intractable. Furthermore, advancements brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution—particularly in artificial intelligence and the emergence of a digitally integrated world—add further layers of complexity and uncertainty to our understanding of the future.

Addressing these multifaceted challenges and fostering a sustainable future will require comprehensive and holistic missionary responses that transcend regional and ecclesial divides. We must engage in collective, transnational, and inter-generational efforts that surpass the boundaries of specific regions, social classes, or age groups.

In light of these considerations, we encourage submissions that explore specific areas such as:

• Climate Justice and Creation Care
• Interfaith collaboration in Mission
• Ecumenical collaboration in Mission
• The role of technology and artificial intelligence in mission work
• Sexuality and Gender Identity in Mission
• Practical applications of mission strategies in addressing global challenges
• The development of public theologies that offer Christian solutions in secular contexts
• Other topics related to the fostering a sustainable world

In summary, at the 16th Assembly of IAMS, we aim to present innovative perspectives on Christian mission as a collective journey, emphasizing collaboration among the global church community. The pressing global and regional challenges we face—including forced population displacements, discrimination against migrants, escalating economic inequality, rising nationalism, and the urgent crisis of climate change—demand our attention and reflection.

We invite contributions that explore these critical issues through the lens of mission, drawing insights from both theological frameworks and interdisciplinary perspectives. This approach acknowledges the expansive nature of contemporary mission studies and invites a diverse array of voices and methodologies to enrich our discussions. By engaging with these multifaceted concerns, we seek to deepen our understanding of mission and its implications for our world today.

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We are pleased to share that full details for the upcoming IAMS Assembly are now available. All information regarding assembly registration, paper draft submission, and other logistics can be found on the IAMS Africa website: IAMS Assembly 2026 – Pretoria, South Africa