Anniversary Message- Where Do We Go from Here?

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

TVBC Characteristics/Priorities

In “12 Keys to an Effective Church,” Kennon Callahan says every church should have 2/3 things that it is known for on the “community grapevine.” This reputation should represent the strengths of the congregation and be the foundation for ministries/programs. Callahan advocates that churches build on their strengths and cautions that “no church can be good at everything.”

These are the strengths I identify in our congregation. You may have a different list. Some may be more aspirational than actual. But it is important that we know who we are in order to know where we are going. The world in which we live challenges us to pack light- to pack strategically- for the journey into service.

Welcome:
• By building and maintaining facilities that are attractive, accessible, and available.
• By creating an atmosphere that is comfortable and inviting regardless of age, ethnicity, or socio-economic status.
• By crafting worship services that honor God and inspire attenders in active participation and blend a variety of elements and musical styles.

Connected to the Community:
• By providing quality programs geared to families with children. (i.e. Vacation Bible School, Fall Family Fun Fair, & Community Easter Eggstravaganza)
• By actively developing relationships with community partners. (i.e. Chalker Elementary School, Highland Court Senior Residences, Laurel’s Edge Senior Apartments, and Baptist Collegiate Ministries @ Kennesaw State University, starting tonight, Campus Church)
• By intentionally sharing facilities with the community. (i.e. Cobb County Board of Elections, neighborhood groups, weddings, school & scout groups, interest groups like dulcimer and crochet groups, and other not-for-profit/service agencies)

Missional Mindset:
• By encouraging lay involvement/leadership in all areas of church life.
• By challenging persons to service through personal mission action.
• By building on-going ministry partnerships through prayer, participation, promotion, and the provision of resources that enable the church to minister locally, nationally, and globally.


Let’s never forget:
• Who we belong to!
• What God has done for us!
• What God has for us to do!

We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that we may declare the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. 1Peter 2:9 (adapted)