Local Churches and ACOP

[Aidan]

In many ways the relationship between the regional director and the local church reminds me of the examples I see in the NT. Barnabas mentored Paul, and Paul mentored Titus, Timothy, and others, all of whom I’m sure went on to mentor others. Also, in the same way that the Apostles could not demand obedience from the churches they planted, nor is it effective for leaders to assert their position over a local church. Rather, the example set by both the NT and ACOP is one of appealing to relationship, calling the church forward because of the relational investment and deposit that was made in that local body.

[Melissa Smyth]

The role of ACOP and regional directors for a self-governing Church is to provide support, accountability, prayer, wisdom, mentorship etc. It is so easy for a Church to feel like an island and for the leadership to feel alone in what they are journeying. ACOP and the regional directors are there to come alongside and provide support and to empower and encourage leaders and Churches as they work to be obedient to Jesus.

[Kevin]

The role of ACOP and regional directors are to simply be there to provide support and any resources a local church may request, such as assistance through conflict or wisdom on future plans.

I can’t say any other partnership agreements come to mind, so I’m not sure I can provide much in the way of comparison and contrast with other agreements.

[Celestine]

The role of ACOP and the regional director in a self-governing church is to provide support, resources, and guidance while respecting the church’s autonomy. ACOP’s role is to equip and empower local churches, rather than control them. The regional director serves as a liaison, offering expertise, encouragement, and connection to the broader ACOP network.

I’m familiar with partnership agreements in other contexts, such as business partnerships and denominational affiliations. Compared to these models, ACOP’s Partnership Agreement seems to prioritize mutual support, cooperation, and shared values. It emphasizes the importance of relationship, trust, and communication between ACOP and local churches.

The ACOP Partnership Agreement document outlines clear expectations, roles, and responsibilities, promoting clarity and accountability. This approach helps ensure that local churches and ACOP work together effectively, leveraging their respective strengths to advance the mission of God. By establishing a framework for cooperation, the agreement enables local churches to thrive while maintaining a connection to the broader ACOP family.