Welcoming - This is definitely a pro-active word that stongly infers being inclusive. It also embraces the standards of hospitality, which is highly valued in the Bible. There are no "ifs" or "buts" implied; in other words, all are welcome to our church, and no one has to change to be like us before they receive our embracing hospitality. We are a WELCOMING church, and we desire to continue to be one.
Community - A community is a fellowship of people who nurture and encourage each other, where all are held up to the scrutiny of truth, and it suggests that a common bond exsists (identified in the next word). A community also is a place of safety, with the sense of home. We do community well.
Christians - I think most of us know what this means. First and foremost, we hold dear the salvation message as understood through Chirst. It also means that we seek to be followers of Christ (of the way of Jesus and his teachings). In addition, Christian denotes righteousness and the desire to share what we cherish with others. May we never forget who we are and what we stand for.
Peace - Peace signifies wholeness,and with that comes an outward flow. Wholeness is not an individual phenomenon; as we are not alone with God. Therefore, Peace mandates that we seek, healing, hope, justice and wholeness in all of God's creation. We do Peace; we live God's redemption, which is creative and non-violent.
