Partners In Harvest

A global family of over 7000+ churches birthed in the revival at Toronto and relationally connected to leaders and ministries within Revival Alliance. Partners In Harvest is a family of churches and ministries worldwide that was birthed as a result of the incredible revival that began in Toronto in 1994 under the ministry of John & Carol Arnott. Today, Partners in Harvest encompasses a growing network of churches, a college with International Schools of Ministry, missions programmes and events running all over the world. Within Partners in Harvest we also have Catch the Fire Ministries based out of the Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship now known as Catch the Fire Toronto. HISTORY & IDENTITY No one can come into close contact with the presence of Jesus Christ and not come away changed. Our concept of church has been shaken due to the wonderful outpouring of the Holy Spirit which began at Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship (TACF), now known as Catch the Fire Toronto, in January of 1994. History reveals a common pattern following a special outpouring of God's manifest presence. As the church leaders are touched, they re-evaluate and re-negotiate all facets of church life. This results in substantial changes; perhaps not in foundational beliefs, but in overall goals and outward practices. These times of evaluation throughout church history brings about new forms of church, as well as new fellowships of churches. In the early weeks of 1996, several pastors who were personally affected by the outpouring in Toronto felt led by the Lord to develop a venue for closer fellowship, support and encouragement - a family of churches and ministries. As they met together, a strong sense of the Lord's presence, deep joy in being together, and a great number of confirming prophetic words drew them to the conclusion that they had the Lord's approval to move forward together. What this new family of churches and ministries was to be called, what its values and goals should be, and what form it ought to assume were not initially clear. But over the following weeks, clarity came and many of these questions began to be answered. We would like to articulate what the Lord said, and has been saying, to us since then. OUR NAME Our name reflects both the high value we place on a partnering relationship and our overall sense of mission in the end time harvest: Partners in Harvest/Friends in Harvest. While this name keeps us focused as a family of churches and ministries, it is not presumed that these words should automatically be included in each partnering church's name. OUR COMMONALITY Partners in Harvest’s common values and key goals also emerged as we shared ideas and convictions which the Lord had been placing in our hearts and minds amidst this outpouring of the Spirit. We acknowledge that these values are not unique to our fellowship but have also been a vital part of other church movements. 3 OUR CORE VALUES Partnering to spread the fire of God’s love, presence and healing throughout the nations. OUR HEAVENLY COMMISIONS F Father’s Love revealed through the Lord Jesus Christ I Intimacy, Presence, & Hearing God’s Voice R Restoration of the Heart/Soul E Extending the Kingdom through the equipping, anointing and empowering of the Holy Spirit 4 COMPARISON OF PIH & FIH WHAT IS PARTNERS IN HARVEST? • PIH is a family and network of churches, a network of people who are united in their passion for Jesus in a no-holds-barred pursuit of Him. • PIH is the PIH family members’ primary relational affiliation and covering. • PIH is the members’ primary source of accountability (PIH leadership and other PIH family members). • PIH leadership exists to provide encouragement, blessing, and a relational network for the building up of its members. • PIH makes every effort to cross denominational, generational and cultural lines in order to increase and promote blessing and unity in the global Body of Christ. • PIH is not a top-down, controlling, pyramid structure. • PIH churches and ministries are autonomous, self-governed entities. The leadership of PIH readily provides counsel. WHAT IS FRIENDS IN HARVEST? • FIH is a loose network of churches associated with PIH, who are united in their passion for Jesus and in a no-holds-barred pursuit of Him. PIH and FIH members unite under the broad banner of the Triune God and purposely steer clear of any theological words or actions that might inadvertently cause offense or stumbling to those of different denominations linked together in FIH; • FIH is a loose fellowship of churches and ministries that crosses denominational, generational and cultural lines in order to increase and promote unity in the global Body of Christ; • FIH is a relational network which draws together churches and ministries whose primary accountability structure is denominational in nature, yet who desire to relate with others flowing in revival. For this reason, Pentecostals, Baptists, Anglicans, Methodists and many others join hands in unity under the broad banner of Jesus Christ through Friends in Harvest. 5 OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH WE BELIEVE there is one God who lives forever in three persons; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Matt. 28:19) WE BELIEVE that the Bible is God's Word to the world, speaking to us with authority and without error. (2 Tim. 3:16-17) WE BELIEVE in the divinity of Jesus Christ the Son, His virgin birth, His sinless life, His miracles, His death for us on the cross, His bodily resurrection, His ascension to the Father, and His personal, physical return to rule the earth in power and love. (Jn. 1:14-18; 1 Thess. 4:16-18) WE BELIEVE that the primary purpose for Jesus Christ’s life on earth was to fully reveal the love of God the Father for the people of this world through His ministry, life, death on the cross and resurrection. (Jn. 3:16; Jn. 5:19-20) WE BELIEVE that all mankind is lost in sin and needs to turn from it and trust personally in the Saviour, Jesus Christ; all need to be born anew by the Holy Spirit's power into God's family. (Eph. 2:1-10; Jn. 3:5-7) WE BELIEVE the Holy Spirit lives in us as believers and brings love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control into our lives. He works in and through us with His charismatic gifts. (Gal. 5:22-23; 1Cor. 12:7-11) WE BELIEVE in the resurrection of every person; to eternal life for the believer and eternal punishment for the unbeliever. (Matt. 25:31-46; Rev.20:10-15; Matt 7:21-23) WE BELIEVE in unity for all believers in our Lord Jesus Christ and seek community together. We want to become more like Him in every way, who is the head of His body, the Church. We are called to love Him and one another and are enabled to do this only as His life flows in and through us. (1 Cor. 12:12-13; Matt. 22:37-40) WE BELIEVE that marriage is the basic human relationship between one man and one woman, and as such is intended to reflect the relationship between Jesus Christ the Bridegroom and His bride the church. (Gen. 2:18-25, Eph. 5:25-32) 6 POINTS TO REMEMBER THE INDIVIDUAL CONGREGATION 1. Names for our Churches/Congregations and Ministries Each congregation should seek the Lord for its identity and name. PIH member churches are welcome to use the words Partner and Harvest, but this is not an expectation. Our only suggestion is to keep your church name short, simple and not religious sounding. On the other hand, we ask that FIH churches not use the PIH or CTF names on their signs, bulletins or letterhead without prior approval from the PIH international office. 2. Congregational Autonomy Congregations are separately organized and function under their own charters of incorporation and financial structures. The Partners in Harvest leadership is available to counsel and spiritually arbitrate in areas of concern or conflict only at the invitation of either the pastor or the board of leaders. 3. Congregational Polity/Governmental Form Congregational autonomy is the rule here also. It is noted, however, that as a congregation establishes its own governmental system, they will probably find that an Episcopal, or pastor and elder led church is often a better approach than a congregational or democratic system where every member votes on every action. 4. Congregational Membership A member congregation will, we trust, choose its own form, definition, or requirements for membership. We only suggest that church leaders bear in mind that their approach reflects and enhances their church's mission and character. For example the "X Generation" has different ideas and expectations for belonging than do the "Boomer" generation. 5. Financial Accountability It is crucial that we operate our churches above reproach. It is best that the finances of a congregation be administered or overseen by its incorporation board, which in turn approves the budget, sets the pastor’s and the staff's salaries, and sets the spending limits and authority of the staff. An annual official financial statement, audit and report to the congregation will help to maintain financial integrity. A general rule of thumb for spending could be 30% for building and utilities, 30% for salaries, and 30% for missions and ministry. Out of the missions and ministry portion it is wise to give away at least 10% to bless work done outside the home congregation. 6. Ministry By a church's interest in the family of churches and ministries, we assume that key and valued areas of ministry in each member congregation will reflect those of Partners in Harvest. This means specifically, entering more into the Father’s Love, worshipping the Lord, emphasizing the personal 7 need for healing for past hurts, evangelizing the lost, renewing the church in the power of the Holy Spirit, nurturing new believers, training and equipping the saints for service, ministering to the poor, praying for the sick and suffering, setting the captives free from spiritual bondage, teaching the whole counsel of the Word of God, prayer, intercession and prophecy. 7. Mission Cross-cultural missions, including sending and supporting short and long-term workers in the harvest is a key value. This begins with prayer that the Lord of the Harvest would send laborers into His harvest. The goal of all mission endeavors should be reaching the lost with the gospel of Christ and planting viable, culturally current congregations. We desire to work with and cooperate with anyone with similar beliefs and goals for the sake of the Kingdom of God. LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL STRUCTURE 1. Purpose for the National and International Family of Churches and Ministries of Churches Our purpose is to encourage, bless, serve, equip, train and counsel Partners in Harvest member congregations and pastors, and to be available to do the same for the broader Body of Christ. Our desire is to encourage greater and deeper intimacy with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and with each other and the broader body of believers. This will be best accomplished through cultivated relationships. 2. Partners in Harvest Identity As a family of churches and ministries, our identity is based on shared values, goals and doctrinal beliefs. These will determine the direction we adopt now, and the shape we take over time as individuals, congregations and as a family of churches and ministries. Much of what we do in conferences will have to do with challenging us to move forward into fulfillment of our values and goals in Jesus. 3. Financial Commitment Each Partners in Harvest congregation and ministry will monthly set aside 2.5% of its total income for the purpose of supporting the mission of this family of churches. The funds should be directed to PIH rather than TACF. The funds will be used to cover the pastoring and administrative costs for the family of churches. Later on, as a strong commitment to world missions forms, additional funding may be needed to support that initiative. 8 IMPORTANT QUESTIONS ANSWERS TO SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 1. Do you ordain or credential ministers? We are currently able to ordain ministers to perform marriages but only in the province of Ontario. We are in the process of applying for registration in other areas of Canada. We do have a credential certification card available for PIH pastors and ministers that shows your affiliation with PIH. 2. What type of organizational and spiritual covering does PIH provide? Since we follow a servant and relational family structure, the covering is more based on a desire to see each member encouraged, blessed, and equipped in every way. Networking relationally with each other is crucial to the covering. Counsel, prayer and training is a major part as well. 3. Is PIH a denomination? If denomination means identifying a name for a specific family in the broader church, then we are. If denomination refers to conformity to a tight pattern or insisting on firm control, then we are not. 4. Must I pastor a church or lead an organized ministry to be in PIH? PIH is not a family of individuals. It is, however, a family of churches and ministries linked together. Therefore, it is not open to individuals as such. 5. What are your expectations of me as a Partner in Harvest? Since PIH is heavily based on relational linking, attendance at PIH family events periodically and involvement in a foursome (or mini cluster) locally is important. We also ask all PIH churches and ministries to contribute 2.5% of the churches' or ministries' income monthly. We trust with your acceptance into PIH that within a year and half you will attend one of our Leadership Schools/International Leaders Schools offered through TACF and one of our Healing Weeks. 6. Must I change my church/ministry's name upon becoming PIH? A church and ministry's name is often a prophetically-given identity; therefore, we hope you will maintain the identity the Lord has given you ... unless you feel like He wants you to change it. 7. How do PIH churches maintain contact for prayer purposes? We have a section of the Website called Groups under the GetPluggedIn area. We encourage all PIH and FIH to join the community, where there is a Prayer forum that is at your disposal. Feel free to share all prayer requests in this group and know that all around the world Partners and Friends are praying with you. www.partnersinharvest.org 9 8. What is the process for becoming a Partner in Harvest Church/Ministry? First, you need to fill out the attached PIH blank application and send it to us. We then contact you to set up a date to visit you for a weekend, most often Friday through Sunday. The purpose of the visit is to get to know you better, meet your leadership team, and answer any questions you/they might have. In addition, we desire to minister in a renewal-type meeting if you so desire and to speak on Sunday morning or at your primary weekly services. Perhaps we can do some additional teaching in a seminar format on a subject that may bless your people. When you send us your completed PIH application, we automatically add you to our database as a Partner in Harvest. That way, you can stay abreast of the many exciting changes in PIH. Please note: you cannot become a Partner in Harvest until International Coordinator Dan Slade, or someone he designates comes to your church and meets with you for a weekend as detailed above. 9. Are there any size qualifications for our church that we must meet to qualify for PIH? We would like a congregation to have at least 40 adults if you live in a city of over 10,000, or at least 25 adults if you are in a small town. 10. What does it mean to be a Partner in Harvest? It means that you and your church or ministry becomes identified with PIH as your primary identity beyond your local congregation. PIH functions for you like a primary family would for blessing, encouragement, relationship, fellowship, and cooperation in regard to broader training, missions, church planting, youth and worship events. When counsel is desired, we are available to help. With that in mind, what does it mean to be a Friend in Harvest? Friends in Harvest is a looser form of relationship, primarily for those under other denominational coverings (i.e., Anglican, Baptist, Pentecostal, Methodist, Catholic, etc.), but who want to relate within the broader family of Partners in Harvest. As a Friend in Harvest you are invited to much of what we do. 11. What are your expectations of me as a Friend in Harvest? We trust that you will take advantage of the regional events, conferences, and other events that are scheduled. We ask you to send an annual minimal contribution of Canadian $250 or the equivalent to help with ministry and operating costs. Checks should be made out to Partners in Harvest. (We do not have an account entitled Friends in Harvest). 12. I've read this now and looked at your website (www.partnersinharvest.org). Where else can I get information? We host PIH information meetings at almost every conference hosted by TACF`. These meetings are often held on the Thursday evening of the conference from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. If you have specific questions about your particular ministry, please e-mail or write us with your specific questions. We'll be sure to respond. 10 PIH YEARLY EVENTS REGIONAL EVENTS WHO: Senior pastors and ministry leaders and their spouses who have already been welcomed as members in the PIH/FIH family of churches. Senior core team members are also welcome. WHAT: Periodic one/two-day gatherings of Partners and Friends in Harvest senior pastors and ministry leaders. Regional Gatherings provide opportunities to take advantage of the input, encouragement and blessing by PIH and FIH leaders and peers through a smaller family-gathering- type atmosphere. We trust Regional Gatherings will provide rest, refreshing, and plenty of time to soak in the Lord in a secure environment with others who are like-minded in pursuing God. WHEN: Held periodically as the Regional Coordinator in your area determines. For Europe the general rule has been to meet in Hemel Hempstead, England (Just outside London) starting the first Monday of November and the first Monday of March. HOW MUCH: No registration cost for PIH senior pastors and ministry leaders (and spouses). There are costs for food and accommodation. However, those accompanying them and FIH members must pay the registration fee, if there is one. PIH/FIH CONFERENCE WHO: Senior and associate pastors, senior and associate leaders of ministries, evangelists, missionaries and their spouses who are interested in learning more about the PIH/FIH family of churches or who are already part of the PIH/FIH family. These may also bring other paid pastoral/ministry staff and key leaders with them. WHAT: A four to five day conference to network and to facilitate relationships with like-minded pastors, paid pastoral staff, missions and other ministry leaders . WHEN: Our central annual international conference starts the first Monday of every October at TACF. HOW MUCH: There is no conference fee for PIH senior ministry leaders and spouses. However, those accompanying them and FIH members must pay the registration fee. 11 REGIONAL COORDINATORS The regional coordinator makes a commitment to you to: • Keep in contact with you approximately once a month. • Provide prayer support. • Offer encouragement and moral support and counsel as needed. • Be available to you and your church in whatever way they can. • Whether over the phone or (even better) in person, the coordinator hopes to function in a pastoral, father/mother, encouragement-type role, encouraging you to be all you can be in the Lord and in your ministry. He/she will be there for you. If you ask, they can offer counsel and advice. You can use him/her as your personal sounding board or fellow brainstormer. If you ask him/her questions he/she cannot answer, he/she can either offer suggestions or act as liaison in providing you with the names of those who might be better able to provide answers in that particular area. The Coordinator’s role is as a father/mother, pastor and intercessor. He/she is willing to function in any of those roles as you think is needed. • Perhaps the role of the coordinator could be clarified further by saying what this role is not. It is not shepherding and, in fact, entails no authority over you to dictate church decisions in any way. The Coordinator will only offer counsel when specifically asked by you to do so. The only thing he/she will offer unasked is encouragement and moral support. In each area or region, there is a regional coordinator appointed to help facilitate conferences, area meetings, and gatherings for fellowship and encouragement. Local PIH/FIH Family Days, training events, and Catch the Fire-type regional conferences will also be coordinated through them. We believe that these times will be a great encouragement to everyone.