A Level Religious Studies Students Explore ‘Reverse Mission’
As part of their A Level Religious Studies curriculum, Sixth Form students were recently treated to an insightful talk by Jamie Klair, Curate at All Saints’ Church, Worcester, on the topic of ‘Reverse Mission’. This subject is a key part of their studies, and Jamie’s extensive research and practical experience in the field provided a rich perspective on this fascinating topic.
Jamie’s PhD research focused on ‘Reverse Mission’ and introduced students to the concept that Christian influence is shifting from the Global South—particularly countries like Nigeria—back to the UK, where the faith originally spread. He explained that the term ‘Reverse Mission’ was coined in Lagos in the 1970s, during a time of political and religious upheaval. As a result of a charismatic revival among university students in Nigeria, many began to carry their revitalised faith to the UK, reshaping Britain’s religious landscape.
The first part of Jamie’s talk examined the historical development of ‘Reverse Mission’ and its origins in Nigeria. His personal research journey, which included fieldwork in London, Cambridge, and Lagos, added a unique depth to the discussion. Jamie also shared how his experiences—such as contracting malaria while in Lagos—shaped his understanding of reverse mission.
In the second half of his talk, Jamie explored how Nigerian Christianity is functioning in British society today. He focused on the important role of prayer within Nigerian church communities and the emerging partnerships between Nigerian-led churches and other Christian denominations in the UK. These partnerships, he explained, are vital in developing stronger, united faith communities and bridging cultural gaps within the broader British church landscape.
Jamie’s talk provided students with an in-depth understanding of ‘Reverse Mission’, not only as an academic concept but also as a living, evolving movement shaping faith practices in the UK. The students left with a deeper appreciation of how global religious movements influence local communities, offering fresh insights into the dynamic world of contemporary Christianity.
