Vision and Values PDF Print E-mail

Our Vision

"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland... to give drink to my people, my chosen, the people I formed for myself that they may proclaim my praise."

....Isaiah 43:19-21 (NIV)

 

We see a church that communicates the Gospel in a winsome, clear, yet unapologetic way to unchurched people. Vocabulary, style and structure will be carefully designed so as not to be offensive to people unfamiliar with Christianity or formerly disillusioned by the church. We will attempt to offend no one with anything but the Gospel. (1 Corinthians 1:23)

 

We see a church where each individual discovers their unique gifts and finds a place to serve with joy. Ministry will be given to the people as their passions, spiritual gifts and personal styles are assessed. Each member will have a significant role.

...we will share insights, support and encouragement as we honestly and openly face the struggles and joys of living in our contemporary world.

 

We see a church where deep Christian friendships are formed. In small groups, like first century believers, we will share insights, support and encouragement as we honestly and openly face the struggles and joys of living in our contemporary world.

 

We see a church that is willing to try new and fresh ideas. This will be the research and development arm of the greater church, experimenting with and refining new styles, structures and technology to export to more traditional congregations. There will be a freedom to fail.

 

We see a church that is in the world, not apart from it. Significant ministry will take place off-campus in homes, work places, schools and other public settings.

 

We see a church that thinks first of others; where there is a deep passion for the unchurched and a willingness to come along side of them and make personal sacrifices so that they will come to know Jesus Christ. This is an extroverted church that focuses first on making new believers and planting new churches.

We experience God and learn in a variety of ways. Therefore, a vast variety of artistic expression will be encouraged.

 

We see a church where all the arts are reclaimed to glorify God. God as creator, has formed us in his image with multiple senses and imagination. We experience God and learn in a variety of ways. Therefore, a vast variety of artistic expression will be encouraged.

 

We see a church where people continue to be stretched in their faith and where new challenges and nudges are given to grow in knowledge and experience of God.

 

We see a church that is targeted toward postmoderns. Where ministry is relevant to an evolving generation with a new world view and where members of that generation are in ministry shaping positions.

 

Our Values

These non-negotiable values define our unique identity and provide the principles that will unite us as a congregation engaged in 21st century mission. They will be the basis for consistent decision making and evaluation.

 

Bible Based

  • As God's inspired word, the Bible will be communicated unashamedly
  • All we believe, profess, and do, will be based on its eternal truths


Multiplication Driven

  • Healthy Christians reproduce other Christians
    • Each person will progress through a discipleship process from seeker to devoted follower of Jesus Christ
    • Each member will be discipling at least one other person
  • Healthy churches reproduce other churches
    • New congregations will be planted periodically


Equipping Structured

  • The Holy Spirit gives unique spiritual gifts & passions to each believer
  • Knowing and using one's gifts brings purpose & meaning
  • Leaders will be intentionally developed
  • The pastor's and teacher's duty will be to give ministry away to equipped laity


Prayer Empowered

  • The church will be dependent upon God for its sustenance, growth and direction

Exploration Channeled

  • Freedom and encouragement will be given to try out new ideas
  • New ministries, discoveries and ideas, once refined, will be exported to the church at large

Multi-Site Located

  • We will be a church IN the community, not confined to a church building
  • Significant ministry will occur off-site in places such as homes, businesses, and campuses


Worship Celebrated

  • The setting will be attentive to all the senses
  • The message will be a gospel of hope
  • The style will be participatory and expressive, uninhibited and expectant

 

Relationships Fostere

  • Friendships will be formed through small groups that are accepting, encouraging, authentic, honest, supportive, and caring
  • Families will be enriched with marriage and parenting skills that are taught, modeled and mentored
  • The style will be participatory and expressive, uninhibited and expectant