Wednesday February 08 , 2012

Core Values

GROUNDED IN FAITH, OPEN TO THE SPIRIT.  We are a forward looking community of God’s children defined, directed, and energized (empowered) by God’s Spirit.

Biblically Centered.  We seek to deepen our roots in God’s Word and God’s love, drawing strength and power from this connection.

Building Each Other Up.  Everything we do should be for the strengthening and encouragement of one another.  We seek to support and enliven each other and not to tear each other down.

Following Christ’s Example of Unselfish Service.  As Jesus lived his life, he put others first and, in love, emptied himself completely for us.  As followers of Christ we are called to offer ourselves in unselfish service to the world.

Forgiving.  Forgiveness is central to our relationship with others.  As God in Christ has forgiven us all our sins, so we are asked to forgive the sins of others.

Growing in Relationship with Christ and Each Other.  As we grow closer to Christ, we can share him with others more fully and effectively.  We cherish those relationships which give us life and prepare us for our mission in the world.

Living in Hope.  We live our lives filled with hope.  We do not despair.  Because our future is in God’s hands, we are not afraid.

Living with Honesty and Integrity.  Sharing the truth in love is central to healthy, honest relationships that grow and work together.

Loving Unconditionally.  There are no strings attached to God’s love.  In response to God’s love for us…we, in turn, love others with no strings attached.

Offering Hospitality.  An important aspect of sharing God’s love is creating a space where all people feel welcomed and valued…without exception.

Rejoicing and Praising.  Because we trust God in all things we give thanks and praise.  In all places and under all conditions, we rejoice because God is present with us.

Seeking Out the Hurting.  Jesus was driven by his compassion for people.  He was constantly reaching out to those who were hurting.  Following the example of Christ, we too are called to reach out to the hurting of the world.

Sharing the Good News of Christ Everywhere.  We reach out beyond any boundaries to love and support one another, our community, and our world with the love of Jesus.

Striving for Justice.  In response to a just God, we are a people who strive for justice in all that we do.  That justice is concerned about building a community where the weakest, smallest, and least powerful are cared for and honored as much as the powerful and wealthy, and mercy is extended to all.

Supporting Servant Leadership.  All of God’s people are needed and called to their unique place in ministry.  The Holy Spirit continually works through the Church to empower and prepare people for their particular role in fulfilling God’s Mission.

Trusting and Depending on God and Each Other.  We know that we cannot carry on the work of God alone.  We trust God to provide the strength that we need.  We also depend on one another as fellow members of the body of Christ.

Valuing and Respecting Everyone, Everywhere.  All of us are valued and cherished by God.  In the same way we value people so much, that without compromising our identity as disciples of Christ, we meet people where they are at, rather than expecting them to meet us where we are comfortable.