What does 'local ownership' mean in PWCM?

• A. Local communities take responsibility for planning and sustaining ministries.
• B. Local churches surrender all control to international organizations.
• C. Local ownership is discouraged.
• D. Only initial funding is local.

Answer: (A)

Local ownership in PWCM means local communities take responsibility for planning and sustaining ministries. It means local churches and believers are empowered to identify needs, design strategies, raise and manage resources, and carry ongoing work over time, rather than having outside groups steer every step. This approach builds programs that fit the local context, gain trust, and endure beyond the presence of external workers or funding.

Why this fits best: when locals lead, ministries stay relevant, accountable to the community, and adaptable to changing circumstances. It promotes built-in leadership development and reduces dependence on outsiders, which is crucial for lasting impact.

Why the other ideas don’t fit: surrendering control to international organizations contradicts the empowerment meant by ownership and undermines local leadership. Saying ownership is discouraged goes against the practical goal of sustainability. Limiting local input to finances only ignores the broader role of local planning, governance, and ongoing stewardship that ownership entails.