Exploring the Theology of Partnership with All Saints’

At Emmaus House, we believe that by partnering with organizations within the community we are able to extend our reach and multiply our impact and that when we do so, we all become stronger. In the Fall of 2020, All Saints’ Episcopal Church commissioned a committee to explore the ways their parish might aid in the struggle for justice and peace. During the year that followed, they met with numerous community leaders throughout Atlanta to assess the different opportunities for service. They felt strongly that their mission would be best served by committing to a long-term relationship with a particular place and a particular people. They choose to partner with Emmaus House. They chose to love in Peoplestown.

All Saints’ and Emmaus House believe that the foundation of a successful partnership lies first in friendship, and second in service. We do not begin by bringing pre-determined solutions to the challenges that face a community. Instead, we bring ourselves. We listen. We seek to learn and grow and be changed by our relationships with others. We strive to be neighbors.

We believe that partnership is a way of “praying with our feet.” Faith is most meaningful when it is expressed through action and love. "If we are to be the Beloved Community, we must break down barriers and recognize that we're all in this together,” says Greg Cole, Executive Director at Emmaus House. “Our work at Emmaus House requires that we share a common purpose and mission with our partners."

Together, we are more than the sum of our parts. When we partner with others, we can exceed our individual grasp and allow God to work through us, to multiply. Partnership allows us to engage in work that is bigger than our private interests, to experience Community with a capital “C,” and to engage with the Spirit that connects all of us. God is in our communities, God is in our partnerships. Most of all, God is in the love we show for one another.

If you are interested in becoming a partner or have any questions, please contact Greg Cole at gregcole@emmaushouse.org.