Twenty authors from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe describe the gripping and eventful history of the Basel Mission - a history characterised by impressive people and their often-astonishing biographies. The sons of simple farmers and craftsmen, for instance, turned into fearless evangelisers, or even influential linguists and geographers. If they initially believed in the superiority of European-Christian civilisation, they learned more and more to estimate the intrinsic value of social systems in the mission areas. For a long time the leadership at home consisted of a small circle of pietists from Basel, who led the Mission through ups and downs with devout energy and rigor.

In time, independent churches were established in former mission areas and claimed successfully participation in decision-making in the Mission. In new forms of worship and devotion they found ways to convincingly combine Christianity and traditional spirituality. Their songs are now being sung in Europe and missionary work was decisively transformed: Today, exchange with different cultures and international solidarity have priority.

This richly illustrated book provides a memorable introduction to the history of the Basel Mission and presents perspectives on current missionary theory and practice.