Relationship, not religion.
Salvation is received through relationship with
Jesus Christ, not through performance of religious rituals. We will seek to call
people into the relationship. Neither Church membership, nor performance of service
within the institution of the church is to be confused with relationship with
Jesus Christ.
Transformation, not conformation.
Sanctification (living as the children of God) results
in an inward change of nature. As the inner nature is changed, the outward manifestation
changes as well. We will seek to call people to new birth, a changed inner nature
rather than call them to the "marks" of a changed nature.
Empowerment, not attainment.
We do not exist for ourselves. Saint Mark Congregation
is not the end. It is a means to an end and an expression of reality. We understand
our purpose as empowerment. Our intent is to be a congregation in which people
are empowered to live as the children of God and do all within our ability to
win the world for Christ.
Responsive, not deterministic.
We will seek the direction of the Spirit in all
our doings. We will be a congregation of prayer. Plans, goals, and objectives
are pointless unless we see those as Spirit-directed responses to opportunities
and challenges placed before us.
Celebrative, not perfunctory.
Our congregational life will be marked by a sense
of joy. Worship will remain as the central, celebrative gathering and, as such,
a focal point of our resources.