Gathering vegetables in Guatemala. Photo: PWS&D.
Philosophy and principles of development and service
Faithful to our calling, we endeavour to respond.
Presbyterian by profession of faith, ecumenical by confession of faith, and inclusive in our practice of faith, we gladly serve women and men, young and old, according to their need and regardless of their faith. In a world with too much poverty, injustice and oppression concentrated in nations of the South, we recognize the interrelation between our affluence and the suffering of others.
We undertake service among churches and organizations seeking to transform their communities by promoting justice, peace and the integrity of creation.
We are committed to development, involving men and women in activities that restore human dignity, ease the pain of want, promote self-help and encourage community cooperation that benefits all members. Development activities will always be sensitive to gender issues, empowerment of the marginalized and the protection of human rights.
We undertake to promote development education and awareness within Canada, sensitizing and connecting Presbyterian men, women and children to the needs of others throughout the world.
Mandate
In 1980, the 106th General Assembly approved the change in name of the Committee on Inter-Church Aid, Refugee and World Service to the Presbyterian World Service and Development Committee, to better reflect the scope and aims of the Committee.
“The mandate of PWS&D is to act as the agency within The Presbyterian Church in Canada for undertaking development activities, disaster relief and education of congregations to these world-wide needs.”
(A&P, 1981, p. 407)
Calling (Theological Statement)
- God’s Covenant with Humankind. God enters into faithful covenant relationships with those who respond to the divine calling. As Micah proclaimed, God requires people of covenant faith “to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.” (Micah 6:8)
- The Incarnation. In Jesus Christ, God became a human being for our salvation. This love for humanity expressed in Jesus’ life must be demonstrated by the Church. Indeed, we minister to Christ as we live for justice, mercy and peace.
- The Reign of God. We believe ‘Shalom’ is the final triumph of God’s will for creation. As we proclaim ‘Good News’ in word and deed, so we witness to the reign of God breaking in and overcoming the world’s pain and despair. Therefore, we believe that the injustice and inequality of our world are an affront to the will of God, that our involvement in compassionate ministry with people throughout the world is not an option but an imperative of the Gospel.
