The Companion Synod relationship of Western Iowa Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America and the Southern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania exists for the purpose of strengthening one another for life and mission within the body of Christ. It offers us the privilege of participating in the life of another church through prayer, study, communications, and exchange of persons and resources. It opens our eyes to the global challenge that Christ offers us today through and involvement with a church of another culture and calls us to deepen our commitment and discipleship as individual persons and as a community of faith.

The purpose of the Staff Support Committee is to affirm and strengthen the mission efforts of the congregation and the ministry which is performed by the staff. The committee listens to both staff members and congregational members so that there can be a clarifying of expectations, open communication, and a review of staff performance. The committee also serves to stimulate support of staff through prayer and caring by congregational members.

The purpose of this instrument is to provide help for congregations as they evaluate the overall effectiveness of their ministry. Such an examination is intended to help create a dialogue between the staff and the lay people in the congregation, so that their energy can be directed into the mission of the congregation, rather than dispersed into conflict.