“We shouldn’t think that unity and being intercultural is somehow an add‑on to the gospel… it’s the very purpose of the church.” – John Stevens

Many church leaders long to see their congregations reflect the rich diversity of their communities – but knowing the steps to take to grow a cross-cultural church can feel overwhelming, costly, or unclear.

In this church‑focused episode, we explore why cross‑cultural competence isn’t an optional extra for churches, but part of God’s design for his people. Jason Roach is joined in this discussion by Israel Olofinjana (One People Commission of the Evangelical Alliance) and John Stevens (Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches).

Together, they unpack the biblical foundations for intercultural life and ministry, reflect on the challenges many churches face, and offer a hopeful vision of what it looks like to grow as a community where every culture is welcomed, heard and built up in Christ.

This episode invites us to see cross‑cultural ministry not as a specialist task, but as part of God’s big story – from creation, to Pentecost, to the church today.

To dig deeper into how to grow a cross-cultural church, access our new leaders guide – visit www.lcm.org.uk/crosscultural