More than a decade ago, representatives
exploring what would become
the Patagonia Mission Partnership
hit a snag—which Spanish translation
for “partnership” should
they use? The group settled on coparticipación—
in English, literally, “co-participation.” The phrase
felt relational and incarnational, not business-like.
Part of that partnership shares a name with
the title of this issue of Beyond Ourselves. Efforts
from the Illinois Arm in Arm group and entities
in Argentina’s Patagonia region have sent mission
workers both north and south. It is one of dozens of
collaborations that enable global mission to thrive.
Some partnerships focus on prayer and relationships
of mutual learning. Others unite to accomplish
specifi c mission objectives, raise support or decide
and carry out ministry directions. A “global” mission
partnership means all partners—individuals,
congregations, conferences or agencies—participate
in all aspects of the vision and ministry.
In this issue: Features