Christian Embassy Communications Philosophy:

The United Nations is necessarily an extremely diverse and complex world, religiously, politically and ethnically.  In our sincere desire to introduce people to the beauty and wonder of Jesus and the Gospel, we work hard at being a safe place for those who differ from us in many ways.

We aim to create an environment where Jesus Christ and Christianity are viewed as attractive and sensible.  Because we know that there are those “in the room” who are not yet believers or not at home in a churchy sub-culture, we aim to offer the sort of experiences and events where their questions are invited, their doubts or difficulties are respected and their struggles have been anticipated.

To create this respectful climate, we are intentional about several things: *

·       We seek to use terminology that is readily understandable to those without our theological or liturgical background.

·       We avoid citing Bible references or other authorities with the tone, “Doesn’t everyone know these things?”

·       We avoid “tribal” language and unnecessary evangelical jargon, or pious, archaic language that seeks to set a ‘spiritual tone’. (i.e.: stylized prayer language)

·       We avoid ‘we-they’ language and any disdainful jokes or dismissive, disrespectful comments about those who differ with us.

·       We avoid sentimental, pompous, manipulative talk, while engaging the heart with the gentle, self-deprecating, joyful irony that the gospel creates.

·       We constantly anticipate and address the concerns, objections and reservations of the ‘skeptical’ or the ‘spiritual pilgrim’, with great respect and sympathy.

 * Much of the content of these guidelines is borrowed from Tim Keller’s communications philosophy at Redeemer Presbyterian Church, Manhattan.