This past November, the officers of the church participated in a retreat led by Presbyterian church consultant the Rev. John Wimberly. Wimberly is the retired pastor of Western Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC, a church which he grew from 30 members to over 500 with a thriving campus and young adult ministry and an excellent endowment. he has an MBA from Johns Hopkins and is the author of two books on church administration.
The Rev. Wimberly consulted with the Future Committee in developing its draft strategic plan, and he, along with committee co-chairs Nancy Ricker and Eduardo Calderon, introduced the plan to the assembled officers. It was well received, and at its November meeting the session adopted the plan for the next three years. The session asked for clarification on a couple of key issues, which will be addressed at its first 2016 meeting on January 27th.
The plan the Future Committee presented to the session comprises five key goals, and the adoption of a new mission statement, vision statement, and tag line.
MISSION STATEMENT
Worship with enthusiasm, serve with passion, learn with commitment, nurture with grace, and welcome with love. St. Stephen Presbyterian Church is an intentionally inclusive community of believers.
VISION STATEMENT
St. Stephen Presbyterian Church is a place where, through faith, education, service, and worship, we glorify God and witness to the world the love of Jesus Christ.
GOAL STATEMENTS
• Maintain a welcoming environment for all that includes traditional worship with an emphasis on beautiful music, service to others and opportunities to learn more about God and God’s Kingdom.
• Explore and adopt effective ways to communicate our messages internally and externally to inform and engage current members and recruit and assimilate new members.
• Maintain and adapt our treasured buildings and grounds so that they serve our missional purpose and are accessible to all.
• Build and strengthen interpersonal relationships among our church family.
• Develop and refine leadership skills within the congregation, its officers and staff.
TAG LINE
“Think. Serve. Worship. Belong.” The tag line is a concise statement of who we are, what makes us unique, and why someone might want to join St. Stephen. You will see it on publications such as letterhead and newsletters.
Under the Rev. Wimberly’s guidance, the officers adopted ten objectives defined by the plan, to pursue over the next year. As things develop, we will continue to keep you informed. This is an exciting time for St. Stephen, and the leadership and staff of the church covet your prayers as we strive toward the future God intends for us!