Partnership

Church Partnership

Christ instituted the Church (Matthew 16:18) to accomplish His mission and Scripture does not refer to any other institution established for this purpose. He is also the head of the Church (Colossians 1:18). We seek to support the Church to fulfill its God-given mission, which includes ministry to children. In addition, as Christians we understand the analogy of the body in 1 Corinthians 12, and see Compassion’s role as complementing and supporting the Church, not competing with it. This leads us to work in partnership with the local church.
As we work in partnership with the local church, we desire to build it up rather than dominate it. Therefore, we choose a facilitative approach that affirms partnership and mutual respect, brings us together around common goals, and expresses our belief in the church, rather than seeing it simply as a means to our ends in children’s ministry.
Partnership is also a powerful approach recognized by Non-Governmental Organizations, as local ownership and understanding by individuals in the community is considered fundamental in addressing poverty. The Christian Church is an institution that is uniquely local and uniquely global. It is both part of the society in which it exists and part of the global Church. It has a deep respect and knowledge of its local culture and context and can also reflect true local initiative.

Why do we partner with the Local Church?

First, because of shared faith. Shared faith allows Compassion and local Christian churches around the world to agree on programs for children. It also gives us a common basis for holding one another accountable as we resolve conflicts and reach agreements that will impact children’s lives.
Second, because of shared resources. Compassion receives support from Christians who understand and maintain Compassion’s Christian commitment. Members of the local churches who host Compassion programs respond to the generosity of Christians in other countries through their own sacrificial support of a development program for their children.
Third, because of stability. Local churches provide much-needed continuity for child development. The local church is present in a community long before Compassion comes to town, and it will be there long after our part of the mission is done. Our experience has shown us that the church provides greater stability as an agent of continued development than do political, educational or judicial institutions in a community.