Epiphany's Mission Statement
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Rooted in Christ Rooted in Christ: The apostle John records Jesus' teaching, "...abide in me, and I in you. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit." (John 15:4-5) The apostle Paul later teaches, "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near..." By attending worship, by listening to the Word of God, and by receiving Holy Communion, we are rooted in Christ, who is our righteousness. Growing in Faith: The apostle Paul refers to the image of growing as the process of maturing. Growth is triggered by engaging life experiences - joy and sorrow. Growth is triggered by book learning. Growth is triggered by using our talents and helping within the church organization. Ephesians 4:11 says "...and his gifts...for building up the body of Christ so until we attain...to mature adulthood of the fullness of Christ." Reaching to Invite and Serve: Jesus called twelve disciples. Jesus has also called us to discipleship, for we are baptized. To us, Jesus says, "Follow me." We have the mission to bring others to Christ's forgiveness and grace. Some are preachers; some are not. At the very least, we are given the responsibility of inviting others to Christ by sharing our faith. At the very least we can invite others to church. Andrew, one of the original disciples, sets the example: "He first found his brother, Simon." (John 1:41-42) He brought Simon to Jesus. In addition, our baptismal call is to serve - to feed the hungry, to clothe those in need, and to visit the imprisoned. (Matthew 25:40) "As you did it to one of the least of these you've done it unto me." |