How the Vestry came to choose our new Mission Statement: "Jesus accepts all to his table; so do we." Tweaks may still happen and can be discussed at the Sunday Seminar on March 13.
2. Why Re-imagine our Mission?
Because we’re a parish now
Because good ones focus energy and
clarify our purpose
Because good ones provide clear
decision-making criteria
Because good ones let everyone know
quickly what we value and who we are
3. Good Ones Answer Questions
Why does our church exist? What is our
purpose?
What is it that makes us different?
What are we committed to providing to our
community?
What promise are we making to our
community?
What wants, needs, desires, pain, or problems
do we minister to?
4. Some Good Ones…
St. Nicholas – The world’s favorite
saint; Chicagoland’s friendliest church.
St. Mark’s – Rooted in baptism;
growing in faith; branching out to the
world.
St. Barnabas – Bringing the mercy of
Jesus to the world
5. A Good Mission Statement. . .
Is SHORT and memorable
Describes WHY parishioners will stay
with you (W.I.I.F.M.?)
Defines your ministry clearly
Defines your ideal parishioner
Shows what makes you special
6. A Good Mission Statement. . .
Answers the question:
What is God doing in
the world and how are
we joining in?
8. St. Benedict’s Mission Statement
To worship God with joy, excitement, and commitment
To introduce Christ and His teaching to all who seek Him
To live in love, centered in God and drawn together by
the Holy Spirit
To welcome everyone to our sanctuary for prayer,
praise, and refreshment
To enrich our common life by drawing upon our Episcopal
traditions
To share Christ’s love with our neighbors through
prayers, work, and friendship.
10. Our Strengths — Primary
Hospitality/Welcoming/Food
Quirky – being different is okay –
acceptance – openness – inclusiveness
Diversity of all kinds
Lively Worship/Fun/Great
Music/Children Included
11. Our Strengths — Secondary
Family/Sense of Community
Focused Outreach
Strong Lay Leadership/Ministers
Grace and Race
Our Building
Our Spirituality
Blue Christmas/Ashes to Go/Pet Blessing
We are Cheerful Givers
14. Important Answers
Welcome everyone as you would welcome
Christ.
St. Benedict is the patron saint of welcome.
All are welcome to this table; we’re called to
accept all people.
Jesus accepts all to his table, let’s break bread
together.