Missionary Zeal and Institutional Control : Organizational Contradictions in the Basel Mission on the Gold Coast 1828-1917

Introduction

Welcome to the thought-provoking world of "Missionary Zeal and Institutional Control: Organizational Contradictions in the Basel Mission on the Gold Coast 1828-1917." This book, penned by Jon Miller, explores the intricate relationship between the missionary zeal and the institutional control mechanisms within the Basel Mission as it operated on the Gold Coast during a transformative period in history.

Detailed Summary of the Book

The book provides a comprehensive analysis of the Basel Mission's undertakings on the Gold Coast from 1828 to 1917. In this period, missionaries embarked on a challenging endeavor to spread Christian teachings, battling not just geographical and cultural obstacles but also political and institutional hurdles. Jon Miller describes how the organization's structure sometimes conflicted with its evangelical objectives, creating a series of organizational contradictions. The narrative delves into the dual nature of missionary work, balancing fervent religious aspirations with the bureaucratic aspects of maintaining and expanding a complex institution. By examining diaries, letters, and official paperwork, the author paints a vivid picture of how missionary efforts were affected by internal and external trials.

Key Takeaways

• Organizational Dynamics: The book provides valuable insights into how religious missions are not just driven by zeal but are also heavily influenced by institutional structures and controls.
• Cultural Interactions: It details the cultural exchanges between missionaries and the local populace, shedding light on the complexities of achieving religious and social impact.
• Historical Context: The historical backdrop adds depth to understanding the socio-political landscape of the Gold Coast during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"The missionary's heart is torn between the call to faith and the call to order, between evangelical passion and bureaucratic necessity."

"In the tapestry of mission history, contradictions are not mere anomalies but threads that hold the fabric together."

Why This Book Matters

Understanding the past efforts of the Basel Mission provides critical insights into the ongoing dialogue about mission work in the present-day context. This book challenges readers to think deeply about the nature of organizational work in religious contexts, and how these dynamics shape both historical and modern interventions. By highlighting the contradictions faced by missionaries, Jon Miller encourages a critical examination of not only how institutional structures impact missions but also the ways in which missions themselves reshape these structures. It’s an essential read for those interested in mission history, organizational studies, and the history of the Gold Coast, offering a unique perspective on how faith-driven initiatives intersect with institutional demands.