Publications & Works of Viv Grigg
Dr. Viv Grigg has spent decades living and ministering among the urban poor in cities around the world. His pioneering work in transformational urban leadership, incarnational mission, and theology of the poor has shaped generations of leaders. Through books, teaching, and the Encarnação Alliance, he continues to call the global Church to live out the gospel where need and hope meet.
Urban Mission & Transformational Leadership
Mission Among the Urban Poor
Viv Grigg directs WCIU’s M.A. in Transformational Urban Leadership and leads the Institute for Transformational Urban Leadership. He pioneers ministry among the global poor.
Pioneered churches and development initiatives in Manila, Calcutta, São Paulo, and Los Angeles
Founder of the Encarnação Alliance, a global urban poor movement network
Advocate for holistic theology, justice, and sustainable transformation in the world’s cities
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Cry of the Urban Poor: Reaching the Slums of Today’s Mega-Cities
Examines how churches can engage the growing slums of the world’s cities, calling for transformational ministry rooted in compassion and justice.
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Companion to the Poor: Christ in the Urban Slums
A classic on incarnational mission, telling the story of life and ministry in Manila’s slums—where faith, justice, and community transformation converge.
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Living Mission: The Vision and Voices of New Friars
Contributes to a global conversation on “new friar” movements—faith communities living incarnationally among the poor with devotion and mission at their core.
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Slum Dwellers' Theology: Pedagogy in the Slums
Outlines twenty years of global collaboration training slum leaders in holistic theology—shaping a movement for urban transformation and justice.
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Kiwinomics: Conversations with New Zealand's Economic Soul
Applies biblical economic principles to modern social and political issues in New Zealand, offering a framework for justice, stewardship, and ethical leadership.
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The Spirit of Christ and the Postmodern City
Explores revival and renewal among New Zealand’s urban churches, connecting postmodern culture, theology, and the Spirit’s work in city transformation.
Graduate Program
Transformational Urban Leadership in Action
MATUL blends online study with mentored fieldwork in marginalized urban communities, preparing leaders to spark spiritual renewal, strengthen local movements, and support practical change—from community health and education to advocacy, church growth, and economic uplift. Students learn on the ground, guided by seasoned practitioners shaping hope in the world’s hardest places.
Institute Spotlight
Advancing Leadership Among the Urban Poor
The Urban Leadership Institute equips emerging leaders who serve in slums and low-income neighborhoods around the world. Drawing from urban theology, social science, and hands-on ministry, the institute helps students analyze structural issues, strengthen faith-rooted community development, and cultivate movement leadership that brings resilience, justice, and renewal to urban communities.
Learn More from Our Faculty
Browse collections of works from each of our scholar-practitioners. Their research spans faith, community transformation, and global development.