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A parish
seeks to integrate global concerns into their parish life by developing a
faith-filled relationship with another parish within or outside of the U.S.
In many circumstances, a twinning partnership involves a parish in the U.S.
twinning with a community organization (e.g., an orphanage), rather than
with a church parish. The form that a particular twinning relationship takes
depends entirely on the two parishes involved, the creativity and gifts of
the members of the two parishes. Establishing the relationship is an
evolutionary process involving pastor and parishioners of both parishes.
It requires work, dedication and understanding from both parishes – the
reward for these efforts is great.
The desired twinning relationship is
one where, like the Christian community described by St. Paul in 1
Corinthians 12, there is a mutual sharing of gifts within the Body of
Christ. We seek to recognize, embrace and nurture a relationship with
our twinning partner as a relationship between equals. The mutuality
of our twinning relationship requires humbleness. It requires an
openness to recognize and accept the gifts that our twinning community has
to give to our parish.
Applicable Resources/Links:
"Bridges
of Faith: Building a Relationship with a Sister Parish" by Dennis P.
O'Connor
“Building Friendships and Solidarity in Christ across Cultures”
Archdiocese of Cincinnati (see page 1)
“Sister Parish
Relationship” Diocese of St. Cloud, Mission Office
"What is Parish Twinning" Archdiocese of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Center for
Mission
Recommended Written
Resources (contact
the Mission Office for information)
Sharing Gifts in the Global Family of Faith by Pakisa K. Tshimika &
Tim Lind
Called as Partners in Christ's Service by Sherron Kay George
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