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Late in the year, the ministry team identified four core values that we believe capture the essence of who we are and who we aspire to be as we seek to be faithful to Christ. At the Session retreat in January, the proposed values were shared with the Session, discussed, and adopted. Now we are excited to begin sharing them with you. Our hope is that every member of the congregation would understand, embrace, and be able to articulate these core values. You will be hearing more about them, but I’d like to share them here so that you can begin to become familiar with them. Our core values are:
Unity - Through baptism, we are joined to Christ and to each other. Jesus is the one who binds us together and unites us. Within the Body of Christ there is diversity, and we embrace and celebrate our varied persuasions. This rich diversity presents us with opportunities to grow in loving, learning, and serving together. Supporting Scriptures: I Corinthians 12:12-13, Ephesians 4:4-6, Romans 14:19, Galatians 3:28
Authenticity – Because we are loved unconditionally by God, we can be honest about who we are, and where we are. Each of us is a unique creation, and blessed with various gifts so we may do the Will of God in our community and sphere of influence. Supporting Scriptures: Romans 5:8 & 8:28-30, Ephesians 2:8-10, Hebrews 12:1-3, & I John 4:18
Hospitality – Jesus showed radical hospitality and often welcomed and befriended those who were outsiders, and we shall do likewise. As a community of Christ followers, we are committed to showing warmth and hospitality to our visitors and invite them to draw near to Christ through our fellowship and worship. Supporting Scripture: Matthew 19:14, Luke 19:5, John 8:9-11
Compassion – We are a congregation that cares deeply for each other and our neighbors, and God calls us to serve rather than be served. Our compassion takes us beyond ourselves and beyond the walls of our church to the hungry, the hurting, the lonely, the lost, and the marginalized. Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 22:37-38, 25:34-40, & 28:17-20, John 13:34-35 & 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
I look forward to reflecting more on these values together in the coming months, and I look forward to seeing how they shape us as a community and the ministry that we do in Christ’s name going forward. I’m so glad that each one of you is part of this unique and wonderful Christ-filled, Spirit-empowered congregation!
In Christ’s love,
Pastor Joy
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