Episcopal Diocese of West Missouri

The companion link is so sacred. We need to experience God afresh and have our hearts transformed. In encounters such as this one, we'll discover that those who we fear are just like us and even though we differ, we can respect one another and even be friends. God's will is working right now as we are discovering this oneness between the dioceses of West Missouri and Botswana. Despite perceptions that Anglicans and Episcopalians are divided over issues such as homosexuality, Anglicans in Africa are more focused on issues that affect their daily lives such as HIV/AIDS, poverty, drought, malaria, and governance. We can continue to use the new companion relationship as a means to experience the world through other eyes and celebrate a oneness that will enrich both dioceses. We must all live together. Through unity of purpose, we can come together to accomplish great things.

Members of the Companion Diocese Committee

Dennis Robinson, St. Mary’s, Kansas City; Channing and Louise Horner,
St. Paul’s, Maryville; Gary Leabo, Trinity, Independence; Martha Colville, St. Alban's, Bolivar; Vanessa Thorsten, St. Paul's, Kansas City; Lesli Hayter, Grace, Liberty; Melissa Bolden, St. Augustine's, Kansas City; The Reverends Jerald Grabher, St. Mary’s, Kansas City; Ron Keel, Resurrection, Blue Springs; Gordon Mesley, Independence; Terry White, GHTC, KC; and Bishop Barry and Mary Howe.

Goals of the Companion Diocese Relationship

Establish linkages between diverse members of the Anglican Communion -within the Diocese of Botswana, Province of Central Africa and the Diocese of West Missouri, The Episcopal Church USA.

Offer opportunities for Christian friendship, education and support.

Explore the spiritual and companion needs of two diverse populations while developing interactions for mutual support and Christian growth.

Offer prayer and support for individual and communal journeys of faith for those within the companion relationship.

Facilitate a better understanding of the culture and polity of the two dioceses by exchanging information through correspondence and personal visitations.

Explore and mutually agree to the support of these potential types of interaction:

Visits by bishops, clergy and laity

Youth, women and clergy exchanges

Parish to parish links

Mission team exchanges

A common prayer or intercessory calendar

Renewal programs

Faithful communication

Seminars and conferences

Gifts of arts and crafts

Cultural events

Work camps

Medical teams

Attendance at diocesan conventions

Assistance in time of need

Development projects