Maternal-thinking and Ubuntu: Exploring family and resilience in missiological research

This collaborative paper by Rheinbolt-Uribe and Freeks examines "maternal-thinking" as a tool for theological and missiological reflection, with a focus on fostering spiritual resilience. Drawing on the African concept of Ubuntu, missiological research, and personal parenting experiences, the authors present a framework to explore the role of maternal-thinking in mission work and theology. They argue that this perspective provides valuable insights, particularly during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The study examines maternal imagery in missiological scholarship, investigates the power dynamics associated with motherhood, and suggests practical applications across various fields. Using a mixed-methods approach that includes in-depth interviews and a combination of content and thematic analysis, the research places special emphasis on the Colombian cultural context. The authors underscore the vital role of mothers in transmitting religious beliefs and practices, highlighting their significance in the missio Dei. The paper also explores the concept of "lived religion" and the "fourth public" in theology, demonstrating how maternal-thinking can provide a more comprehensive understanding of faith communities and spiritual resilience. Ultimately, the authors conclude that adopting a maternal-thinking perspective, understood within the context of Ubuntu, has the potential to bring about transformative changes in missiology and offer new insights into spiritual resilience and community building.