Congregational Development

Examining Core Values

No two churches are alike, not even churches of the same denomination. Differences arise out of location, history, size of the active membership and community demographics. Perhaps more importantly, differences are attributable to the people who have shaped the ministry of the church and helped to form its personality and values. Each church is a family system which affects the way it interacts and ministers. Like a family, it operates on a set of values which the members tacitly understand, but which may be bewildering to newcomers.

The core values of a congregation answer the question, "Why do we do what we do around here?" A ministry based on clearly articulated core values drives a fixed stake into the ground that says to all, "this is what we stand for; this is what we are all about; this is who we are; this is what we can do for you."1

A good core values statement should articulate clearly what a congregation values most highly. New congregations being planted in America are establishing their core values from the onset. This lays the foundation for building ministry and accountability. But established congregations benefit, too, from taking a good hard internal look to uncover its core values. It enables them to discern their unique mission, which can assist in shaping its vision and ministry for the future. It is also helpful to persons looking to join a congregation to understand the nature of the church and its priorities.

Core values can answer these questions:

• Why do we do what we do?
• What do we stand for?
• What are we all about?
• What is our uniqueness as a community?
• What do we offer to visitors and newcomers?

The diocesan congregational coaches are trained to assist churches identify and articulate their core values in a simple, comprehensive and entertaining way.

1115 Marion Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201 | 803-771-7800