A mission statement sounds a bit intimidating, doesn’t it? Can you really take all the aspects of, well, anything, and summarize it in just a few words?
Your church’s mission statement communicates who you are to the world, and while it doesn’t have to be intimidating, it is important. Maybe you’re writing or rewriting one. Or maybe this post will prompt you to at least take a fresh look at yours. (Alert: If it was written in the 20th century, it’s time!)
Regardless, here are a few things to consider.
Basics.
A mission statement, whether it’s for a church, company or book club, is simply the reason the organization exists at all. I realize we’re talking about churches, which (should) all exist to glorify and serve Christ. But we all know that the thousands of different churches differ in various ways.
Here’s an idea: Sit down with a diverse group from the church (staff, members, elders, etc.), and answer the following questions together.
1. Why did God call your founders to start your church in the first place? (Was there a need for more biblical teaching? Sharing the gospel locally? Serving Christ through serving specific needs in the community?)
2. What is unique about your church?
3. What words describe your church?
Length.
After you’ve come up with some answers (could be a fun meeting!), make a list of words and phrases that are most important, realizing you’re really going to have to whittle them down.
In researching church mission statements, I found several that made my eyes begin to glaze over a bit. Here’s the idea: “Happyland Love Church is all about Jesus. We want to help you, your children and your neighbors know how God and His Word can change your life and then lead you to serve him. We’ll provide biblical teaching to help you grow … ”
You get it. Actually, sounds like a lovely church, but there are other avenues for all of that. Your mission statement should be one sentence, two at the most.
Simplicity.
Too much church jargon might not get across what you’re really about to non-Christians or even new Christians. Words such as “sanctification” and “justification” are important to know and understand, but there’s probably a better place for them.
Remember that your website probably contains your statement of faith, church history and road to salvation, among many other great resources. It may be challenging, but keep it simple. Try to make it make sense to, and make an impact on, various ages and backgrounds.
… And Honesty.
Be real and truthful with your mission statement, not to mention humble. If your church doesn’t really focus on global missions, don’t say that it does. (Maybe the initial brainstorming meeting will even prompt some prayer for areas your church needs to grow in.
Also, has your vision changed from what it was when you first started? In that case, make sure your current mission statement reflects who you are now.
So, what is the status of your church’s mission statement? Do you love it? Have you seen some mission statements that you thought really hit the mark? Share them with us!
Note: This post was written by our team member, Holly Goff.
