Those who read the fine print learn that two ladles may have dipped into that pot. One is publicly touted as “aid and development,” while the less advertised dipper is called “advocacy,” a.k.a. politics.

In the name of collaboration, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) has joined one of the world’s largest “humanitarian, church-based bodies.”

According to a March news release from the Presbyterian Church (USA), the partnership will improve PDA’s ability to serve when disaster strikes.

“By working collaboratively with our international partners in ACT Alliance, PDA is able to extend and expand the reach of its vital humanitarian response activities,” said Randy Ackley, coordinator of PDA. “As an active member of this strong global network, we offer support to disaster-affected people here in the U.S. and in virtually every corner of the globe.”

The partnership also will pool PCUSA-funded resources with a global alliance with 100 members working in 125 countries. According to a PCUSA news release, the Geneva-based ACT Alliance operating budget is approximately $1.5 billion.

Formerly known as ACT International, the global relief agency was established in 1995. PDA joins the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, International Orthodox Christian Charities and Lutheran World Relief as the U.S. members of the alliance.

Presbyterian Church (USA) and disaster relief officials of other denominations have forged “Action by Churches Together (The ACT Alliance),” a common pot from which to disburse an anticipated $1.5 billion annual flow of parishioner compassion.