Summer Institute

A Day of Worship, Wisdom & Witness

Saturday, June 7th, 2025, marked a rich and Spirit-filled gathering at Maynooth Community Church to IBI’s annual Summer Institute—a day shaped by vibrant dialogue, deep conversations, intercultural learning, and worship. The event this year was led in partnership between IBI and IMI (Intercultural Ministries Ireland). Leaders, pastors, and participants from across Ireland and beyond gathered to explore the theme of Becoming Intercultural churches in 21st-century Ireland.

The day included four seminars on building intercultural communities, intercultural worship, hermeneutics, and preaching. The keynote speaker Nathaniel Jennings reflected on the biblical call to mutual hospitality, welcoming the stranger, and living out the unity of the Body of Christ. Participants were inspired by worship conducted in multiple languages, providing a taste of heaven. Interactive panel and seminars offered practical steps toward fostering intercultural communities and provided thoughtful steps toward building inclusive, gospel-shaped communities that reflect Christ’s love across cultures.

Quotes that inspired us

"We want churches that feel like fruit salads, not smoothies—diverse, distinct, and deeply connected."
— Nathaniel Jennings

"We are all migrants. Theologically speaking, our citizenship is in heaven. That means we live here as guests, with humility, not ownership."
— Rev Dr Israel Olofinjana

This year’s Summer Institute has challenged us not only to deepen our understanding but also to more fully embody the Gospel in our lives. As we progress, let us be willing to embrace discomfort, celebrate cultural diversity, and reflect the justice and love of Christ in every church community. These changes bring forth new theological, ministry, and mission-related questions. How can we move towards creating genuinely intercultural churches? Let’s continue this conversation.

Gallery

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