The values of Global Ecumenical Partnerships
GEP staff apply the four values of the Interim Unified Agency to global partnerships
In 2025, the Interim Unified Agency identified four values to guide its work: learning, trustworthiness, courage and nimbleness. While gathering in December for the first time in person since the creation of their office, several staff members of the PC(USA)’s Global Ecumenical Partnerships reflect on why these are important values as Presbyterians build and sustain relationships around the world.
“The values are all connected,” said the Rev. Ellen Sherby, manager for the international global ecumenical liaisons. “We learn and discern how God is leading us. By learning, we are open to change, which makes us nimble and responsive to different contexts and emerging needs, work and movements. Courage and trustworthiness are foundational to action; we respond to God’s call with courage. And as we learn, discern and seek how to respond, we want to be rooted in mutually trusting relationships.”
Reflecting on the need to be nimble as they sustain existing and create new partnerships and networks within the PC(USA) and around the world, U.S.-based Global Ecumenical Liaison Cindy Corell said, “The world is changing while we are changing.”
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