About our Mission Statement

January 16, 2025 2:27 AM

 Crafting a mission statement is one of those seemingly small decisions that carry significant weight—it sets the course for where we’re heading as a congregation and reminds us why we’re here in the first place. Let me explain a few things about the mission statement “We are here to share the life-giving message of Jesus”.  I wanted it to be simple, memorable, and, most importantly, a reflection of our true mission as a church family. After much thought and prayer, I felt this mission statement captured it well.  "To share the life-giving message of Jesus."   This statement comes directly from the heart because, at its core, this is what we strive to do every day. It’s not drowned in jargon or weighed down by overly complex wording—it’s something everyone can remember and resonate with. My goal was to create something that anyone in our community could hold onto and feel a part of.   Deciding the Approach  When working on this mission, I intentionally chose not to complicate the process. Yes, mission statements are important, but they aren’t the end goal—they’re a tool to drive action, not overthinking. The real mission is to live the words, not to lose ourselves in endless discussions trying to perfect them.   I took time to read and reflect on other church mission statements, which gave me clarity. What resonated most was where I believe our church is headed and who God is calling us to be. The simplicity of our mission statement evokes the essence of why we come together every Sunday, why we serve during the week, and why we pour into one another’s lives—it’s about carrying the message of Jesus to those who long to hear it.   And while I didn’t involve long debates with the church board, my hope was that this restraint kept us focused on doing the mission rather than endlessly discussing how best to phrase it.   Reflecting Core Values  The mission statement also effortlessly weaves in the core values we hold as a church. Each of these values underpins our greater purpose and shapes the heart of our community:  1. Know God   2. Find Freedom   3. Love Others   4. Make a Difference These values remind us of what matters most. They help shape our mission and keep us reaching further and higher in love, compassion, and faith.  

A Mission That Moves Us   At the end of the day, I wanted a statement that inspires every single one of us to live it out. Whether you’re leading a ministry, welcoming people into service, or simply showing kindness to someone in need, this mission calls us forward together.   It’s my prayer that our statement isn’t just something we say—it’s something we are. That through our lives, our words, and our love, we will continuously reflect Jesus and lead others toward His life-giving message.  

Ways to Reinforce the Mission Statement   1. Include It in Regular Meetings   Open every church board, staff, or leadership meeting by briefly revisiting the mission statement. Incrate a reflective moment to align the day's agenda with the goal of sharing the life-giving message of Jesus.   2. Create Visual Reminders   Place the mission statement prominently around physical spaces—meeting rooms, offices, and shared areas. A simple framed poster or digital display serves as a constant visual reminder to keep the mission at the heart of daily decisions.   3. Align Goals and Plans with the Mission   When setting annual plans, projects, or activities, tie every initiative back to the mission. For example, ask, "How does this program help us share Jesus' message?" This practice ensures alignment and keeps the focus on the ultimate purpose.   4. Celebrate Mission Milestones   Recognize and celebrate moments where the mission comes to life. Has a ministry project reached new people? Did a community event inspire someone to deepen their faith? Share these stories to highlight how the mission is being fulfilled.   5. Feature It in Messaging and Materials   Embed the mission statement in church newsletters, leadership emails, bulletins, and presentations. Use it as a theme or tagline so that every reader connects back to the shared purpose.   6. Use It as a Lens for Decision-Making   When faced with tough decisions, invite leaders to ask, "Does this align with our mission?" This reinforces a mission-first mindset and empowers thoughtful, mission-driven responses.   7. Develop Team Devotionals Around It   Craft devotionals or prayer sessions that center on the mission statement. Reflect on Scriptures that emphasize sharing Jesus’ message or highlight the transformative impact of sharing His word.   8. Highlight It in Training   When onboarding new staff, leaders, or volunteers, emphasize the mission early and often during training. Share how it influences daily roles and empowers their contribution to the greater purpose.   9. Tell Stories That Embody the Mission   Whether during services, staff meetings, or team gatherings, share real-life stories that reflect the spirit of the mission. Stories of lives changed by Jesus’ message create an emotional connection and inspire continued dedication.   10. Lead by Example   Leaders should personally model behavior that reflects the mission. By living the commitment to share the life-giving message of Jesus, they inspire others to do the same.   By weaving the mission statement into every level of leadership, planning, and celebration, the message becomes more than words—it becomes a shared heartbeat driving every action. 

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