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The article begins by explaining the reason for the author's selection of the motif of reconciliation as a key to understanding Genesis in missional terms. She draws attention to the fact that though 'reconciliation' is often linked to mission, in reality the theological connections between mission and reconciliation are not always clearly spelt out. Additionally Robert Schreiter's seminal work on the subject has largely ignored the Old Testament.The article then identifies the key episodes in Genesis where reconciliation is explored, that between Jacob and Esau and that between Joseph and his brothers. She draws attention to the way that these two scenes are in effect the climax of a motif which has run through the entire book, the relationship between 'pairs', and particularly between brothers. The article suggests that the theme of reconciliation as it is explored in Genesis offers a significant challenge to a too ready focus on particularity.This contribution to the BISAM project in missiological reading of the Bible explores the Book of Genesis from the standpoint of the theme of reconciliation, a motif which has become increasingly significant in missiological reflection during the last twenty years. The 2005 CWME gathering in Athens, with its motto, 'Come Holy Spirit heal and reconcile', was a visible statement that a thirst for reconciliation lies at the heart of our mission thinking today.It is appropriate to begin by setting the context out of which I write. Currently I work part of my time as theological consultant for a Church of England mission agency, USPG

The article draws upon the author’s lived experience of working for the World Council of Churches for seven years as lead staff member in its interreligious office. She suggests that there were three different strands, all of which were important to keep in mind in order to enable the office to carry out its role successfully: seeking to resource and enable Christians to live and minister in our multireligious world; developing and sustaining long-term bilateral relationships with partners representing other faiths, and with organisations which are intentionally interreligious; working with partners of other faiths on matters of mutual concern, particularly related to issues of justice and peace. The article explores each of these strands, with examples offered of how each was practically exemplified in the interreligious office during the period when she held staff responsibility for its work.