What Is Mission Partners?
The Mission Partners program links established congregations, groups or
individuals in a direct partner relationship with new ministries of the
ELCA or with congregations experiencing new ministry directions.
Mission Partners provides an opportunity for members of the partnering
congregations to experience a personal, hands-on involvement in working
together in mission. They come to realize in new ways that both are
“givers” and “receivers” as they share God’s grace in Christ’s mission.
A Mission Partner gift or activity may be a one-time effort, or may
extend over a year or a period of years. A formal agreement stating
expectations and commitments facilitates the partnership. Mission
Partners programs are successful only if they are funded with new money,
not with funds already allocated to other ELCA benevolence and
ministries. Experience shows that congregational mission support does
not suffer as congregations and members become involved in Mission
Partners. In, fact, congregational giving generally increases as people
grow in awareness and excitement for the mission of the church.
All ministries on the Mission Partners list have been evaluated by the
Outreach Commission of the NT-NL Synod and are validated as a part of
the synod’s mission efforts.
What Kinds of Partnerships Are There?
- Gifts of Money: Financial gifts for new congregations, older congregations in changing communities or minority ministries may be used to support the ministry itself, purchase land or building, or reduce a loan the congregation carries.
- Sharing Time and Skills: Where geographically possible, groups may volunteer to make home visits, teach in church school, provide musical help for worship, help build or repair facilities and the like.
- Gifts in Kind: Ministries sometimes need chancel or meeting room furnishings. Bibles, hymnals, musical instruments or other supplies can be important in kind contributions.
- Loans: Loans can be a significant help toward purchase of land or buildings for new ministries. The ELCA’s Mission Investment Fund provides one avenue to do so.
- Mission Builders: Volunteer teams of workers help construct first units for new congregations.
- Global Mission Partnering: Congregations interested in mission partnerships beyond the synod boundaries are encouraged to direct inquires to the NT-NL Outreach Commission at SynodOffice@ntnl.org (214-637-6865) and to become acquainted with the ELCA’s
Global Mission efforts.
For More Information, Please Contact:
Mr. Ed Halter, Coordinator, 972-252-3433
Mission Partners at SynodOffice@ntnl.org
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