Pervaiz Sultan

Our visiting scholar for the 2007 Winter term was Pervaiz Sultan, principal of St. Thomas' Theological College in Pakistan. The College trains around 30 full time students for ordained ministry in the church of Pakistan.

Pervaiz has a special interest in mission in an Asian context, and mission and development, and while at Redcliffe he contributed to lectures in these areas, as well as evangelism and discipleship.

We caught up with him during his time at Redcliffe:

So what does he hope Redcliffe students will gain from his visit?
"My hope is that I will bring a different, non-Western perspective to the students – not better or worse, just different. I also hope that they will be encouraged to see a Pakistani Christian confidently engaged in mission, and maybe also encouraged to visit my country.

"The consequences of globalisation are creating an identity crisis and disparity amongst the rich and poor in Pakistan. Pakistani Christians often suffer from poverty and underdevelopment, and there is legal and social pressure from many sides. It is a challenge to maintain unity and bring a mission mindedness into the church."

And when he leaves, what will he remember about Redcliffe?
"I have found Redcliffe to be a friendly place, with openness and a good mix of students. I like the phrase 'Centre for Mission Training' as the College focuses very clearly on evangelical mission practice. I also like the combination of field work and class work, where students can put theory into practice. And even the good choice of meals accommodates other cultures!"

During his time at Redcliffe Dr Sultan contributed an article entitled 'Reconciliation as Mission' to issue 16 of Encounters Mission Ezine (see Crucial Issues Facing Asian Mission)