Our Core Values

If our mission informs what we do, then our values inform how we do what we do.  We have determined that the “core” of all that we do is the Gospel. We have determined to stay devoted to the core of who Jesus is and what He has done. We express this in a simple, corporate commitment:

“In all things core, unity; in all things non-core, freedom; in all things, grace.”

What values will drive our decisions, our strategies, and our practices?

Gospel

The Gospel is our central message, our only hope, and our motivation in all things. The Gospel of free grace is that Christ has lived the perfect life for us, thus fulfilling the holy demands of the Law so we don’t have to. He paid the punishment for our sins upon the cross and has imputed His righteousness to us. We now live in obedience, fueled by a greater and greater awareness and appropriation of what Christ has already done for us. Our focus will be not on what we do but on what He has done for us.  John 3:16, 2 Corinthians 5:21

Grace

The distinguishing mark and message of every follower of Jesus is a life of grace.  We desire to be a church marked by grace in everything we do.  We serve one another, forgive one another, and love others more than we love ourselves. Ephesians 2:8-9, Ephesians 4:32

Authenticity

We value authentic lives before the Lord and each other.  We want to be honest about our brokenness, our pain, our failures, and our struggles.  We believe that in our honesty, not only is God honored, but we are healed and set on a course of purity and commitment before the Lord in all areas of life. James 5:16

Inclusion

The Gospel is for everyone and all are welcome into the Kingdom of God through Christ.  We receive and welcome all people, regardless of where they are on their spiritual journey. Romans 12:4–5

Collaboration

The Kingdom of God is bigger than any one church, denomination, or group and Christ has called us to be unified to bring Him glory. John 17

Empowerment

Every member is released into the mission of God and empowered to fulfill God’s purpose for him/her. Ephesians 4:11, Hebrews 10:24

Innovation

Individuals and churches do not grow without change. Change comes through innovation.  The church innovates when it loves others more than tradition and remains true to the Gospel while stimulating progress.  This creates an atmosphere of growth and the Gospel is communicated in relevant means to the next generation. Luke 5:33-39

Generosity

Our God is a generous God and the distinguishing mark of His grace is generosity. We want to be a giving people. We give to the poor, the hopeless, and the hurting as an extension of the life of Jesus. Generosity also sets us free from ourselves and from materialism. John 3:16, 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

Mission

It is the mission of God that determines our priorities, our work, and informs our direction.  Christ’s mission in the world is the lens through which we discern our ministry initiatives, financial allocations, and activities. Every follower of Jesus, young and old, is called out to bring hope and healing to others throughout the world.  We are all unified through the mission of Jesus.  Matthew 20:28, Matthew 28:18-20, Luke 4:18-21