Missionary practice of Georg Friedrich Vicedom in New Guinea (1929-1939) : a presentation based mainly on his own writings

• Main Author: Muller, K. W.
• Published: University of Aberdeen 1992
• Subjects: 270
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.593181

The interpretation of the German missionary theologian Prof. Dr. G.F. Vicedom, D.D. (1903-1974) is difficult without consideration of the biographical background. Young Vicedom was deeply influenced by the simple way of life of his home, culture and the Lutheran Church in upper Franconia, which manifested itself in deep religious faith. Training at the mission seminary in Neuendettelsau and in Hamburg gave him the best possible preparation for mission service at that time. The basis for his theology and his understanding of mission was laid mainly by Karl Steck and Christian Keysser. In 1929, he travelled out to New Guinea. The Neuendettelsau mission strategy and method were put into practice by Vicedom in the area of the goldfields near Mumeng. An acute illness and his marriage were decisive for the development of his effective work. He learned two languages, researched the culture, gained important experience and became a respected staff member. New 'discoveries' took Vicedom into the densely populated highlands. After cases of murder, restrictions by the government forced the adoption of a new strategy. Difficulties with the Catholics and positive response of the people to the Gospel motivated his consistent mission work, despite problems, and separation from his family. Awakened non-Christian people became messengers of Christianity. An unstoppable movement led the Highland people groups to an official mass meeting, at which the traditional religion was disposed by the leaders, and the Gospel accepted. The people themselves integrated Christian standards and values into their culture. Vicedom caused attention: he researched culture and language, wrote scholarly articles. In 1939, he returned to Germany. A three-volume work on culture and theological publications were the basis for two honorary doctorates (1950). As mission inspector, professor of Religious Science and Theology of Mission at Augustana Hochschule, and as a missiological writer, he had a lasting influence on the mission.