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The Diocese of Chicago reaches beyond Illinois through its companion diocese relationships with the Diocese of Renk in the Province of South Sudan, and the Diocese of Southeastern Mexico in the Anglican Church of Mexico. In addition, diocesan congregations maintain relationships with Episcopal and Anglican churches in Congo, Central America, Haiti, Jerusalem, the Middle East, Mozambique and Madagascar by participating in mission trips, sharing prayer concerns and supporting missionaries.

A Prayer for World Mission Sunday

Almighty God, giver of all blessings, anoint us with wisdom, grace, patience and peace. Know that we are preparing ourselves for service to Your people around the world. Be our Guide and Protector, as we undertake the responsibilities You have given us. You are faithful in Your promises to us; may we be faithful in Your service.

Pour out your Spirit on us that we may know things belonging to Your peace. Pour out your Spirit upon the Church that we may be found faithful in witness. Pour out your Spirit upon our Diocese that we may be united in the work to which You have called us. Amen.

Companion Dioceses

The Commission on Global Ministry was formed by Resolution at the 2000 Diocesan Convention, and the 2001 convention passed a Resolution entering into formal Companion Diocese Relationships with Renk and Southeastern Mexico for five years, officially renewing the relationship in 2006, 2011 and 2016.

The Commission on Global Ministry describes the partnerships as mutual ventures in mission that involve reciprocal visits, congregational links, language and cultural sharing, youth involvement, exchange of clergy and seminarians, and the exchange of spiritual and material resources.

More than two dozen congregations in the Diocese of Chicago have formed partnerships with congregations in one or both companion dioceses. The Rt. Rev. Joseph Garang Atem of Renk, and The Rt. Rev. Benito Juarez-Martinez of Southeastern Mexico have visited the diocese on numerous occasions.

Through companion relationships, the diocese is raising awareness and assisting in establishment and expansion of outreach centers worship spaces, clinics, seminaries, and schools. Learn more about Companion Diocese Relationships on the Episcopal Church Global Partnerships webpage.