Issue Number 30 — IAMS Matters 2024 December
Dear IAMS Members and Friends,
As we approach the beautiful season of Christmas, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared as a community and to express my deep gratitude for each of you. I pray for all of you that God’s peace may overflow in your hearts as we celebrate this season of hope and renewal.
Reflecting on my time as president, I remember my commitments in my inauguration speech. First, one of my main goals was to update our IAMS website, which needed to be updated and in need of change. I am happy to say that I have worked hard to fulfill this promise. The new website, set to launch in early 2025, is the result of that commitment. It will serve as a dynamic hub for academic exchange, a space for deeper engagement among our members, and a platform that reflects our global reach. Over the past year, I have dedicated much of my energy to this project, and I am excited to see it come to fruition.
Second, I want to express my gratitude to Norbert Hintersteiner for his outstanding leadership as editor of Mission Studies. His work has been invaluable, and we are all grateful for his service. Looking ahead, I am thrilled to welcome Professor Dorottya Nagy as the new editor, starting in 2025. Alongside her, three assistant editors—Nigel Rooms, Eugene Baron, and Norbert Litoing—will bring fresh perspectives and energy to the journal. I have no doubt that Mission Studies will continue to thrive, offering important insights for mission studies in this new era.
Third, I am overjoyed to share that IAMS Africa has successfully launched! With 55 attendees, this milestone is more than just an event—it’s a new beginning. Seeing the African network take shape has been one of the most inspiring experiences of my presidency, and I am so grateful for the vision and leadership of the Africa IAMS team. This launch is a testament to the growing need for a platform facilitating scholarly engagement across Africa. I look forward to seeing how this vibrant new chapter will continue to unfold.
Fourth, as we move forward with preparations for the 16th IAMS Assembly in Pretoria, South Africa, I am filled with excitement for what lies ahead. The assembly, which will be held at the University of South Africa from July 17 to 21, 2026, will be a key moment for all of us. The theme, “Walking Together in Mission: Facing Global Challenges for a Sustainable World,” could not be more timely, and I am confident that the academic and spiritual exchange we will experience will have a lasting impact.
As we continue preparing for the assembly, we are actively working on key steps, including finalizing the call for papers and forming the Academic Committee in the coming months. Additionally, we are planning a site visit in mid-2025 and are continuing to secure the necessary support and funding to ensure the event’s success.
Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of your membership fees as we move into the new year. These fees are vital for supporting the ongoing work of IAMS, including our preparations for the upcoming general assembly. They enable us to strengthen our network, develop resources, and provide platforms for dialogue and collaboration. With your faithful support through membership, much of what we envision for the assembly and beyond is possible. As you renew your membership, know that your contribution is not only an investment in the life of our organization but also in the flourishing of global mission studies.
Reflecting on this past year, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as your president. It has been a year of challenges, but also one of immense growth and collaboration. I am reminded daily of the importance of our collective work in mission studies and the global church. As we celebrate the birth of our Savior this Christmas, I pray that God’s peace will fill your hearts and homes.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a blessed 2025! I look forward to walking together with you all in mission and scholarship this coming year.
With gratitude and joy,
Prof. Bokyoung Park
President, IAMS