Personality of a congregation is as real as the personality of an individual. One of the great struggles of a congregation is to define its own identity.
Individuals who simply go “where the wind blows” are shaped by external forces. Without applying mind or will life just happens.
Basically, the individual reacts to external stimuli. The will of the person is crafted by the expectations of other people, animals, or events. It is like a boat without a rudder on water. The boat is being driven by wind or current without power to correct course. Those on the boat have no idea of where they are going and no ability to insure safe arrival.
If the personality of a congregation is solely that of the pastor, then as often as the congregation changes pastors the personality of the congregation will change. This is hapless and reckless. There is no long-term strategy. No anchor for children to be taught with expectation of a mature future for a Body of believers. The congregation must become engaged in defining and shaping who the people want to be as a congregation.
It is true that much of the character of a local church is determined by the leadership style of the Senior Pastor. Fairly, you have a right to know my heart.
My values and faith are based on:
1. The Bible is true, and it serves totally as the Holy Book for our discipline.
2. Jesus is the Only Savior, and He is the Head of the Church.
3. The Holy Spirit is the source of wisdom, counsel, comfort, Truth, and power.
4. The Church is Christ's Body, eternal and glorious.
As a leader I believe:
1. Team is biblical.
2. Gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT are distributed to all believers.
3. The congregation works best when everyone uses their Holy Spirit gifts.
4. Developing the character of congregational personality is hard work and must be done with intent…painstakingly.
5. Vision is shared and must be owned by the congregation.
6. The rudder must be put on the ship by the congregation, i.e., though the Pastor casts the vision, planning must be done to determine a preferred future and how to get to the preferred future.
7. The congregation must work together to craft a sailing plan that is determined, willful, and consistent.
The above we have done at Covenant Church. We have charted a careful path of discipleship. A Strategic Plan has enabled us to stay on course. Our mission-driven heart keeps us focused at home and with design as we reach to our community and our world.
In the coming weeks you will have opportunity to be part of a progressive dialogue. An invitation will be extended for a time of discussion. My hope is that we can walk together in faith and work together in unity being a people who will bring honor and glory to God in these prophetic times.
We will decide as a congregation if this is the time to construct a larger lobby and join our two main buildings into one large unit. Studies indicate the plan would be positive for people-flow, which should result in increased attendance and increased number of activities. However, we must decide if it is feasible at this time and how it would be financially accomplished. Approximate cost, including an elevator, is projected to be about one million dollars.
Again, we are team. Team will decide.
I believe our best HOPE is the Coming of Jesus for the Church. Yet, while we look for Jesus to come we work. Yes, we work joyfully and cheerfully, sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ!
While we wait for Jesus to come we will be diligent in labor to share Luke 4:18-20 with every person possible. We are committed to serve. We desire to share with others our joy of being followers of Jesus.
My hope and prayer is that you will join with me in increased prayer. Let us follow Hebrews 10:25 with diligence and remember that where God's people are gathered is a House of Prayer. Commit with me to work together maximizing efforts to reach the lost and make disciples (Matthew 28:18-28).
Much love
Pastor Bare
I Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing