What a Parachurch Organisation Looks like
A parachurch organisation is a Christian ministry that operates independently of traditional church structures but exists to support and complement the church’s mission. These organisations often focus on specific activities such as evangelism, social justice, education, humanitarian aid, or discipleship.
Unlike local churches, parachurch organisations typically do not function as places of worship but instead work alongside churches to provide specialised services or outreach efforts, often working across denominations.
Examples of parachurch organisations include:
- Reinhard Bonnke (Christ for all Nations, CfAN)
- John Bevere (Messenger International)
- Morris Cerullo (Morris Cerullo World Evangelism)
- Campus ministries (InterVarsity etc. )
- Relief and development organisations (e.g. World Vision, Samaritan’s Purse)
- Bible translation groups (e.g. Wycliffe Bible Translators)
- Christian media organisations (e.g. Focus on the Family)
- Alpha International (behind the Alpha Course)
- Operation Mobilisation (OM)
- The 700 Club / CBN / Operation Blessing
The most recognisable on this list are probably The 700 Club, CBN, Operation Blessing and perhaps Alpha International. These are classic examples of global parachurch organisations that serve the worldwide Church.
For instance, the entire Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), founded by Pat Robertson, is media-based—not a church—yet reaches millions with teaching, news, prayer, and support, all alongside local churches without replacing them. Similarly, Alpha International’s mission is evangelism and discipleship through the Alpha Course. They, too, are not a church; instead, they equip churches to share the gospel and make disciples.
Parachurch organisations often rely on donations, volunteers, and partnerships with churches to fulfil their mission. Samaritan’s Purse, as mentioned above, is led by Franklin Graham (son of Billy Graham) and has a significant global impact through humanitarian aid and Christian outreach.
The body of Christ is vast, and many parachurch organisations exist that can go further and faster than the local church ever could.
Parachurches don’t compete with the body — they are the body!
