Innovative Ministry in the Church
The category of cooperating ministry was added to our diocesan canons at the 2019 Diocesan Convention after the approval of a resolution proposed by the diocesan Evangelism Taskforce.
The resolution sought to allow for non-congregational entities to be formally recognized as participating members of our community in the belief that making ourselves open and expecting of new and innovative forms of community and discipleship would empower new, non-congregational ministries to flourish within our diocese.
Cooperating Ministries in EDWM
Plainsong Farm in Rockford, MI – Learn more
The Order of Naucratius, based in Northwest Michigan – Learn more
Application Process & Renewal
Approval Process
- The Applicant submits an online application, which is forwarded to the Bishop’s Office.
- The Bishop determines whether to recommend the application to the Diocesan Council.
- The Diocesan Council considers the application and votes on the provisional approval of the Cooperating Ministry.
- The provisional approval is forwarded to the Diocesan Convention for ratification.
- The initial term of the agreement begins on the effective date and expires on March 31st of the second calendar year following.
Audits & Reporting
Within 60 days after the end of the CM’s fiscal year, the CM must deliver an annual report to the diocesan council, including the following information:
- Mission activities
- Financial statements, including an operating statement and balance sheet
An audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Manual for Business Methods in Church Affairs shall be submitted to the Diocesan Treasurer by September 1 of each fiscal year.
Renewal of Agreement
Cooperating Ministries, having fulfilled their annual reporting requirements and maintaining activities consistent with the mission and vision of the diocese, may be renewed for annual periods upon agreement by the organization and approval of the Diocesan Council acting upon the recommendation of the Bishop.
CONTACT PERSON
Katie Forsyth, Canon for Evangelism & Networking