New and Old Horizons in the Orality Movement

“This volume offers readers not only an introduction to key issues in the orality movement, but also fresh contributions by leading practitioners and researchers. A welcome addition to the growing literature on orality.”


—Craig Ott, Professor of Mission and Intercultural Studies, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School





“Unique and impressive tour d’horizon of the state of orality in missional ecclesiology. With extraordinary depth, thoughtful critique, and meaningful recovery of systems, the authors provide groundbreaking research and innovation that sets the course for the new decade. Steffen and Armstrong have created a brain trust. With delight, may I commend this book to you.”


—Samuel E. Chiang, Orality Catalyst, Lausanne Movement





“I felt an unusual sense of elation as I went through New and Old Horizons in the Orality Movement. Nothing is as thrilling as seeing a living intersection between orality and theology. . . . I recommend this book to everyone interested in the Great Commission, but especially students, faculties, and libraries of all theological institutions across Africa and the world.”


—Ezekiel A. Ajibade, Partnership Coordinator, The Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary





“New and Old Horizons in the Orality Movement is a remarkable gift to cross-cultural workers and educators at a crucial time in missiological history. Steffen and Armstrong have pulled together a riveting compendium of the latest research and praxis for oral strategies. I was gripped by this book from beginning to end. . . . I highly recommend this book—it’s a must-read for expanding your horizons in mission.”


—Robin Harris, President, Evangelical Missiological Society





“This is a groundbreaking volume on orality. . . . Steffen and Armstrong have skillfully and successfully attempted to convince the church as well as the academy to take orality seriously as a strategic teaching-learning tool for disciple making. New and Old Horizons in the Orality Movement is an invaluable resource for missiologists, theological students, and educators, and of course, orality researchers. I highly recommend it.”


—Shivraj K. Mahendra, Dean of Online Studies and Assistant Professor of World Christianity, New Theological College





“Listen up! This work is essential for anyone committed to twenty-first century mission with emerging generations and broken people among the oral majority. These seasoned practitioners examine the roots of modern Bible storytelling, wrestle with the limitations of highly literate theological education, and expand the application of ‘orality’ to any kingdom communication strategy. Their work applies to any context, from city streets to mountain pathways. Find out why and share it with others.”


—Charles B. Madinger, International Director, International Orality Network





“What a breath of fresh air for missiology in general and orality in particular! . . . This book describes both the complexity of understanding/applying orality as well as the practicality for topics such as theological education and spiritual formation. . . . The reader will also be delighted to explore more recent implications to orality, such as oral hermeneutics applying character theology, various oral teaching applications in seminaries, and trauma healing, to name a few.”


—W. Jay Moon, Professor of Church Planting and Evangelism, Asbury Theological Seminary