Presbyterian Mission Agency

Presbyterian Mission Agency
Name	Presbyterian Mission Agency
Type	Mission agency
Main classification	Protestant
Orientation	Reformed theology
Polity	Presbyterian polity
Parent organization	Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
Founded date	1837
Headquarters	Louisville, Kentucky
Area served	Worldwide
Focus	Mission, Relief, Development
Website	https://www.presbyterianmission.org/

Presbyterian Mission Agency. The Presbyterian Mission Agency is the mission and ministry arm of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), charged with implementing the denomination's domestic and international witness. Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, it coordinates a wide array of programs focused on evangelism, compassion, justice, and leadership development. The agency's work is deeply rooted in the Reformed theological tradition and is carried out in partnership with presbyteries, global church bodies, and community organizations.

History

The agency's origins trace back to early mission boards formed in the 19th century, such as the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions and the Board of Foreign Missions of the Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A.. A pivotal reorganization occurred in 1837 with the founding of the Western Foreign Missionary Society, which later evolved into the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions. Throughout the 20th century, entities like the Board of National Missions and the United Presbyterian Church in the United States of America shaped its direction, leading to the creation of the current structure following the 1983 reunion that formed the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Key historical figures in its development include Sheldon Jackson, a missionary to the American frontier, and John G. Magee, known for his humanitarian work during the Nanking Massacre.

Organization and structure

The agency is governed by a board of directors elected by the General Assembly and is led by an executive director, a position held by individuals such as the Rev. Diane Moffett. Its work is organized into several ministry areas, including World Mission, Compassion, Peace & Justice, and Theology, Formation & Evangelism. It operates in close connection with the Office of the General Assembly and collaborates with middle governing bodies like the Synod of the Trinity and the Presbytery of the James. Administrative functions are supported by offices such as Presbyterian Women and the Presbyterian Foundation.

Mission work and programs

The agency's global mission presence includes long-term mission co-workers serving in countries from South Sudan to South Korea, often in partnership with churches like the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian and the Evangelical Church of Egypt (Synod of the Nile). Domestically, it supports initiatives through the Self-Development of People program and disaster response via Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. Key advocacy and development efforts focus on issues such as climate justice, immigration reform, and addressing poverty through the Joining Hands network. It also runs significant educational and young adult programs like Young Adult Volunteers and Presbyterian Youth Triennium.

Theology and principles

The agency's mission theology is grounded in the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Book of Confessions, emphasizing the Great Commission and the Reformation principles of grace and sovereignty of God. Its approach integrates evangelism with the pursuit of social justice, reflecting the Reformed concept of the missio Dei. Core principles include doing mission "in partnership" rather than paternalism, a commitment to reconciliation inspired by passages like 2 Corinthians 5, and a focus on both proclaiming the Gospel and confronting systemic issues like racism and economic inequality.

Relationship with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

As an agency of the denomination, it is accountable to the biennial General Assembly, which sets its priorities and budget. It works interdependently with other national entities, such as the Presbyterian Investment and Loan Program and the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation. The agency implements assembly directives on social witness, such as those related to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict or LGBTQ+ inclusion. Its work is resourced and supported by congregations across the denomination, from First Presbyterian Church in New York City to Fourth Presbyterian Church (Chicago).

Finances and funding

The agency's primary funding comes from the One Great Hour of Sharing offering and designated gifts to the Presbyterian Mission budget, which is part of the denomination's per capita and shared mission funding system. Major financial oversight is provided by the Presbyterian Foundation and the Board of Pensions. Resources are allocated to support mission personnel, partner grants, and programs like Hunger Program and Educate a Child, Transform the World. Financial challenges have included restructuring due to declining denominational membership, leading to increased emphasis on directed giving and partnerships with organizations like the World Council of Churches.

Category:Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Category:Christian missionary societies Category:Religious organizations based in Kentucky Category:Organizations established in 1837