After several months of discussion, the Boards of Directors of both OneByOne and Presbyterians for Renewal have developed a "high-level partnership," believing that the two organizations share the same desire for spiritual renewal throughout the denomination, including healing of sexual brokenness.  The respective organizations are officially yoked in full affirmation and promotion of one another's ministries, yet retaining structural and financial distinction.  While both Boards will remain distinct, each will welcome an official liaison from the other.  Fund-raising will remain separate as well.

"For us, this action adds a pastoral and ministerial program aimed at Christ-centered, sexual wholeness to complement the prophetic and renewing messages woven in and around the recent years of debate on ordination standards," said Joe Rightmyer, PFR Executive Director.  "OneByOne offers a speakers bureau, workshops and seminars, testimonies of transformation, and many printed resources that relate the power of the gospel to issues of sexuality and morality.  Support groups are being formed in local congregations, along with the development of a curriculum that can be used in Sunday School or small groups.  A joint national conference specifically addressing topics of sexual brokenness will be offered in 2003.  PFR could not be more pleased with this relationship with OneByOne."

Theresa Latini, Executive Director of OneByOne, is also excited about the partnership, and added, "This formal partnership enables OneByOne to serve officially with a like-minded organization committed to the renewal of the Presbyterian Church (USA).  The OneByOne Board of Directors eagerly anticipates extending our educational resources and services in cooperation with the ministries of PFR.  We are thrilled by this relationship with PFR and anticipate a future of mutual witness to the grace and power of Christ that transforms lives abused, tempted, and held captive by sexual sin."

A recent release of statistical information underscores the need of such ministry.  For example, polling indicates that over 50% of committed Christian men struggle with pornography, and over 30% of women and 15% of men struggle with the effects of childhood sexual abuse.  A smaller percentage struggles with homosexuality, but the cultural message favors normalization of homosexual relationships.  Both PFR and OBO are committed to counter our culture with the life-changing, good news that our bodies are designed to be temples of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to conform to the divine perspective regarding human sexuality that leads to abundant life.

More about OneByOne can be found on their web site, www.oneby1.org.