PARTNER CONGREGATIONS

 

WE ARE CONNECTIONAL CHRISTIANS

 

 

In addition to our denominational ties in the Chicago area, and around the nation, we also sustain meaningful congregational partnerships in Italy and Cuba.

Hope Presbyterian Church, Chicago

Our partner congregation in West Englewood on the South Side of Chicago is the longest serving Presbyterian church in Chicago founded as an African American congregation. The church's roots reach back into the Cumberland Presbyterian tradition and a group of believers who moved to Chicago from Bowling Green, Kentucky in 1897.

 

The neighborhood has faced many social and economic challenges over the years, yet our partner congregation continues to bring creativity and vitality to the engagement of this community that is rich in heritage and hope. Through the years we have exchanged preaching, choirs, youth activities, and supported common outreach ministries.

 

If making the urban/suburban connection real is an interest of yours, reach out to Pastor Brian Paulson with your interest and questions.

Presbyterian Reformed Church of San Nicolas de Bari, Cuba

Our partner congregation in a rural community of central Cuba, about a half day drive from Havana, has a long and powerful witness of faith. They were planted in the community before the Cuban revolution and have continued their witness through trying political and economic times.

 

Church partnerships are an essential part of their congregational life. Members of our congregation have visited our partners over many years and shared several common projects with them. We have partnered to expand the facilities of their church campus, which has broadened the many ways their members connect with their rural community. They connect with older adults in a variety of ministries and welcome an abundance of children into Sunday morning ministries. Their congregation has produced several young people who have gone into ordained ministry for churches across Cuba.

 

If you want to learn about this powerful and unique Christian witness and ways you can share your gifts in creative ways, reach out to Pastor Brian Paulson with your interest and questions.

Waldensian Church of Milan, Italy

Our partner congregation in Milan, Italy is part of the historic Waldensian Christian movement that recently marked 850 years of witness to Jesus Christ and his servant love. They describe themselves as the Presbyterians of Italy who are now federated nationally as the Waldensian Methodist Church of Italy. Their tradition joined our common roots in the Genevan Protestant Reformation in the year 1532. Yet their spiritual movement began in simplicity to share the gospel and serve the poor beginning in 1174. Their common commitments and love of scripture aligned well with our Swiss and Scottish Presbyterian origins. 

 

Today, although the Waldensians are a small minority in Italy, they are leaders in the cause of justice for all and are constantly at the forefront of innovating ministries of welcome and inclusion. Our partner congregation is located at the center of Milan, an easy walk to the historic Duomo cathedral and right next door to the University of Milan. Members of their congregation have visited our congregation for more than a decade. Our youth have exchanged visits and shared in service. Dr. Paulson has preached and led worship in Milan several times and in turn their pastors have shared our pulpit as well.

 

If you are interested in learning more about their story or making connections with our partners, reach out to Pastor Brian Paulson with your interest and questions.