Having opened a new book (at least for me) Church Re-Imagined, by Doug Pagitt and the Solomon's Porch Community*, I discovered a different set of Core Values. Granted the book begins with "We dream of a church where…" and then follows with the list below (not calling them core values) nevertheless I think they are a great set of core values.
- We listen to and are obedient to God
- People who are not Christians become followers of God in the way of Jesus
- Those who are not involved in church would become an active part of it
- People are deeply connected to God in all of life: body, mind, soul, and spirit
- Beauty, art and creativity are valued, used and understood as coming from the Creator
- Culture is met, embraced and transformed
- Joy, fun and excitement are part of our lives
- The Kingdom of God is increased in real\ ways in the world
- The biblical story of God is told and contributed to
- Biblical Justice, mercy, grace, love and righteousness lead the way
- Truth, honesty and health are a way of life
- We value innovation and are willing to take risks in order to being glory to God
- Worship of God is full, vibrant, real and pleasing to God
- Faith, hope and love are the context for all
- The next generation of leadership is built up, and leaders are servants
- Everyone is equipped to do ministry
- God's Spirit takes precedence over all structures and systems
- Christian Community is the attraction to outsiders and the answer to questions of faith
- People participate in the Kingdom of God in accordance with their abilities and gifts
- We are connected to, dependent on, and serve the global church
- People learn the ways of God and are encouraged to make them central to their lives
- Other churches are valued and supported
- People's visions and ideas of ministry come to life
John
*ISBN 978-0-310-26975-5
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