Episode 6: The Journey Towards Mutuality with Mekdes Haddis

Summary

In this conversation, Eddy and Mekdes Haddis discuss the importance of empathy in the missions community and the impact of the white savior complex. They explore the need for understanding different perspectives, taking collaborative action, and addressing the lack of empathy in traditional Western mission practices. Mekdes shares her experiences as an Ethiopian immigrant and challenges the narrative of the hunter in mission work. They also discuss the shame experienced by minority missionaries and the disparities in wealth that affect their ability to serve.

The conversation highlights the need for a shift towards a more empathetic approach that uplifts local leadership. The conversation explores the need for a deeper understanding of mission work and challenges the traditional approach of Western missionaries. It emphasizes the importance of listening to and respecting the dignity of the people being served, rather than imposing Western ideals and culture.

The conversation also highlights the need for a shift in the mission movement, with a focus on the next generation and a more collaborative and decentralized approach. It acknowledges the role of women, particularly from the global south, in leading a new wave of mission initiatives. The conversation concludes with advice for young missionaries to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and to be open to the unique path that God has for them.

Takeaways

• Empathy in the missions community involves understanding different perspectives and taking collaborative action.
• Traditional Western mission practices often lack empathy and perpetuate the white savior complex.
• Minority missionaries often face shame and financial challenges due to disparities in wealth.
• There is a need for a shift towards a more empathetic approach that uplifts local leadership. Start mission work by listening and understanding the culture and dignity of the people being served.
• Challenge the traditional approach of Western missionaries and avoid imposing Western ideals and culture.
• Focus on the next generation and invest in their training and development for mission work.
• Embrace a collaborative and decentralized approach to mission work.
• Recognize the important role of women, particularly from the global south, in leading a new wave of mission initiatives.
• Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and be open to the unique path that God has for each individual in mission work.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Admiration for Mekdes
09:45 The Lack of Empathy in Traditional Western Mission Practices
30:17 Listening and Understanding: A New Approach to Mission Work
46:48 Women in Mission: Leading a New Wave of Initiatives
53:40 Guidance from the Holy Spirit: Embracing a Unique Path in Mission Work

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Discover more about Mekdes Haddis' ministry at: mekdeshaddis.com

Learn more about the Unbroken Place Podcast at: www.eddypaulthomas.com/unbrokenplace

Discover the transformative power of empathy in both our personal lives and the workplace with the following resources:

• Ok...On Second Thought newsletter on Linkedin.
• Ok...On Second Thought articles.
• Ok...On Second Thought Resources for the Workplace.

Brought to you by Elevate 1 Consulting.

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios.

Music: "Open Door" & "I Dare You" by Little Glass Men from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.