Decolonizing Diakonia: From Servanthood to Companionship

The traditional concept of diakonia centres on servanthood and humble service, leading to inconsistencies in mission practice and necessitating revision. If diakonia continues to be defined as servanthood, it risks objectifying people, excluding them from being subjects of mission, failing to learn from others, and mystifying the power of domination. Since diakonia has been essential to the mission of the church from its early days, its interpretation significantly influences the church's self-understanding, current mission and relationships with others. Decolonizing Diakonia explores these issues by examining the Bible, historical developments, theology of service, and Katherine B. Hockin's companionship. This book discovers new language, images, and practices for diakonia that align with postcolonial contexts, emphasizing just, respectful, and compassionate relationships among those participating in God's mission today. Hockin's concept of diakonia as companionship is a fitting idea and practice for our mission. Her notion of companionship is inclusive, allowing everyone to participate in God's mission as equals regardless of their status or privilege within society's power structures. This companionship transforms the power dynamics from being for others into with each other. Decolonizing Diakonia contributes to a deeper understanding of the importance of intercultural and postcolonial hermeneutics as a critique of power and decolonizing mission practice.

Anyone who deals in this era of fragmentation and the brokenness of our societies with human beings should make this book its own. Not thinking and acting for others and accordingly disempowering them or patronizing them, but in the approach of diaconal companionship, the focus is placed on acting with others, a togetherness that we urgently need in a post-colonial age. - Prof. Dr Benjamin Simon, Ecumenical Institute at Bossey/ World Council of Churches

Using biblical, historical, theological, philosophical, missiological, social and power analysis, Decolonizing Diakonia makes a compelling argument for moving away from the image of servanthood toward an embracing of the idea of companionship. Members of the diaconate and champions of intercultural sensitivity and inclusion will appreciate this powerful challenge to traditional thinking and will value the moving story-telling that Cho and Park share in this volume. - Ted Dodd, President DIAKONIA of the Americas and Caribbean Member of the World Council of Churches Ecumenical Diakonia Reference Group