Narratives told of the experiences of members of cross-culturally appointed clergy will be used as stories in which meaning, and identity are tested. The characters that the stories feature, the roles that they play, and the connection of those stories to the larger social context reveal the ways in which each contextual story can be an avenue into a realm of greater sociological understanding. Rather than just the analysis of accumulated data, I will be exploring issues of personal importance within the acknowledged social context and consider my own thoughts and reactions therein. I will be reviewing other existing literature on topics of similar contextual significance.

The study explores the concerns that are foremost in the minds of these pastors who are serving in cross-cultural appointments. It includes expressions of pain and frustration deeply internalized in the hearts of the subject clergy. This paper voices the feelings held by the subject clergy and offers them as concerns to be explored by those who are in a position to respond in a meaningful way. If indeed these feelings are valid, as I believe they are, the study identifies a clear opportunity to capture firsthand experiential data which, if acted upon, could produce a more effective approach to the issue of cross-culturalism in the church and a remedy to combat the malady of racism and de facto segregation which permeates the broader society and unfortunately is reflected in our churches. The study exposes the need for more effective approaches. Adequately addressing these issues could benefit both the UMC and other denominations within the body of Christ as a whole.