The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) reached a critical juncture in its restructuring efforts with the unprecedented elimination of all mission co-worker roles and the closing of the World Mission ministry area at the end of March.
According to talking points sent to all World Mission staff, “the new expression of global ecumenical engagement will be housed within the Office of the Stated Clerk and Executive Director of the Interim Unified Agency (IUA).” This move, first announced in January, has sparked significant concern and backlash, including among international mission partners.
Some laid-off mission co-workers have been invited to consider new roles as global ecumenical liaisons. Those not retained in the new structure received severance packages covering the next six months, followed by a continued salary for a limited time based on their tenure of service.
Mission co-workers have been a foundational aspect of the PC(USA)’s global ministry for nearly two centuries, dating back to the denomination’s early involvement in international missions in the 19th century. Historically, these co-workers have lived and served alongside or embedded with international partners, engaging in education, health care, social justice, evangelism and community development ministries. Their presence has often symbolized the denomination’s commitment to partnership and mutual accompaniment rather than mere outreach or aid.
The National Hispanic Latino Presbyterian Caucus…
