I recently read a blog post of the Society of American Archivists that expressed the importance of mission statements, stating they “can provide a clear direction for our operation decision-making and they can inform external audiences…about our work” (Society of American Archivists, 2015).
The mission statement for the Potomac Conference is: To Grow Healthy, Disciple-Making Churches. What does this mean? Why is this important? Our direction as Christians is to be connected to Jesus. If we are connected to the Vine, we will grow into healthy and loving disciples for Him. We are called to be part of the nurturing body of Christ that fosters positive community, in and outside of our church walls, allows for daily growth in our spiritual, emotional and physical lives and continually draws people into our family. Simply put, we are called to live as mission statements — loving the Lord with all our mind, body and soul (Luke 10:27).
Ellen White reminds us that “knowledge, benevolence, eloquence, gratitude, and zeal are all aids in the good work; but without the love of Jesus in the heart, the work of the Christian minister is a failure,” (Desire of Ages, pg. 815). When we grow healthy, disciple-making churches, we share Jesus’ love. There is no better mission.
By Bill Miller, Potomac Conference Corporation President
