Having the “banks” of a partnership understood and documented can be very helpful. A written memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the U.S. local church and an overseas field gives clarity. This MOU should contain the following elements:

1. The names of the parties forming the partnership with the understanding that a field director is to have approval from the respective regional director before finalizing and signing a MOU.
2. The main partnership contributions each partner brings to the relationship.
3. How communication regarding the partnership is to be carried out.
4. A review process bringing both partners to “the table” at agreed-upon intervals to evaluate the partnership and discuss any needed changes.
5. The process whereby either party can graciously exit the partnership in a manner that minimizes damage for all concerned.
6. Duration of the partnership.
7. Signatures of the main representative(s) for each party.

For the sake of planning and coordination, a copy of each MOU signed is to be forwarded to the respective regional director and the coordinator for ministry partnerships. This promotes understanding and good communication while avoiding the duplication of efforts.

The following is an example of a Partnership Agreement or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The Office of Ministry Partnerships is here to help you walk through this process and complete your Partnership Agreement.

» Download a sample MOU Document (PDF)