Purpose Statement

So after reading these chapters and letting the concepts bounce around in my heart and spirit, here's my first shot at a purpose statement for Ardent YM...

"Ardent Youth Ministry exists to be a place where students know they BELONG, will be challenged to PURSUE Jesus Christ, will learn to WORSHIP with their life, will find their place to SERVE, and ultimately become a supernatural INFLUENCE in their world."
I think this statement covers all the purposes, but also shows a progression that I believe will typically happen in the lives of students.

FELLOWSHIP: It starts with just being a place that is safe and welcoming. And as students keep coming back, they realize that it really is a place they can belong...and it might be the only place for some. It will be the love of Christ through us that causes that to happen.

DISCIPLESHIP: Then we begin to challenge them to not only sit and listen to what's being said, but also to PURSUE a vibrant relationship with Jesus and knowledge of the Word of God. That means they will have to engage in that process...not just sit while we do all the work.

WORSHIP: We will teach them by example, through the Word, and through repetition that worship is a way of living their life. Prayer, obedience, church, service...these are all forms of worship, and we want to make sure that students understand this principle!

MINISTRY: Every believer has been given talents and abilities from God. We need to find an effective way to help students discover those giftings and then find an opportunity to use them in service for the Kingdom of God. In many cases, they will get connected with ministries outside Ardent.

EVANGELISM: As we know, evangelism is more than door-to-door witnessing - although that is a valuable experience for Christians! We also want to equip students to recognize the powerful INFLUENCE that their daily lives have on those around them. A genuine, transparent relationship with Jesus and other Christians can truly impact their world.

I've asked Pastor Jeff to give me some feedback about this purpose statement, but I also want to hear from you! Please let me know what you think or if you have any suggestions for better wording.