Mission:
We exist to extend the welcome of Jesus.
- What is the welcome of Jesus? – It is truth and grace (John 1:14).
- Who receives the welcome of Jesus? – The church community (Romans 15:7) and the city in which we live (Genesis 12:1-3).
- How do we extend the welcome of Jesus? – Through our words (Romans 1:16) and our deeds (1 Peter 2:12; Titus 2:10).
Values:
Our mission is channeled through three values:
- Formation | symbolically represented as the “Lord’s Table"
We value formation — growing in the likeness of Jesus. So we value spiritual formation habits and emotionally healthy discipleship. Some verses that capture this: 2 Corinthians 3:18; James 3:13-18; Matthew 28:19; 1 Thessalonians 2 (esp. v. 8, 10); Romans 11:33-36; John 11:35. - Vocation | symbolically represented as the “Work Table”
We value vocation — connecting our everyday life to the mission of God, listening and responding to God’s call (“vocare”) on our life, which breaks down the sacred/secular split. Some verses that capture this: Genesis 12:1-3; Acts 17:16-34; 1 Thessalonians 4:11; Revelation 21; Genesis 12:1-3; Jeremiah 29:7; Acts 17; Genesis 1:1; 12:1-3; Acts 1:1; Romans 12:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:11; 1 Peter. - Invitation | symbolically represented as the “Dinner Table”
We value invitation — taking initiative to invite others into our life so they have an opportunity to experience and respond to the welcome of Jesus. Scripture that captures this: Matthew 9:9-13; Romans 15:7; Leviticus 19:34; Luke 7:34; Ephesians 2:13; 1 Peter 4:9; Romans 12:13, 15:7; Hebrews 13:2; Acts 2; Galatians 2:11-16; Ephesians 2.
Vision:
God has called Hope to have a “faithful presence” who prioritizes “renovation and substantial healing.” In ten years... Hope is no longer a potted tree in a nursery, but a deeply rooted oak tree for the sake of our city.