Writing Down the Vision

The Vision Statement has the potential to be a very powerful piece of communication. Sadly many vision statements don't quite realise that potential. A Vision Statement can paint a picture which creates a sense of desire and builds commitment to reaching the vision.

Vision statements are different to Mission statements. A mission statement explains the main aim or purpose of the church or organisation. It is not surprising if many churches have very similar mission statements. However, the vision statement expresses the desired destination of the church within a certain time-frame. Given the number of different elements to the faith, the many ways of growing the Kingdom, and the diverse ways of serving those in need, vision statements may well differ between churches, as God's specific calling to different churches at any point in time differs. They are likely to be specific without being comprehensive. Let's consider two examples :

By planting a new neighbourhood church at the north end of our town, a number of families will come to faith. Worship in an accessible and informal style and a practical concern for the community, and involvement with it, will encourage people into the church. A programme of nurture and teaching alongside a growing fellowship will lead people into a deeper spiritual experience .

Year 2005 Vision :
Growth in attendance , of 15% per year for the last five years, has allowed us to expand our offering of worship styles on a Sunday morning. This growth seemed to stem from the highly successful ecumenical Millennium celebrations, and the increased prayerfulness of our church, both individually and corporately. It's great to see people enjoy spending time with God. Most of the congregation meet weekly in some form of prayer group.

=> Both statements make choices as to what is included and what is left out. It is vital that this is the case if the vision statement is not to become a "catch-all" justifying everything that the church would like to do.

=> Both are reasonably specific in outlining one or two key details behind each of the major statements. All vision statements will need further expansion, particularly as a church walks forward into reaching out for such vision. There will be alternative options and choices to be made - the vision statement can be updated if necessary.

=> The second statement gives an idea of timing. It is often better to paint a vision at somewhere between 3 and 10 years out in order for the vision to represent more than next year's project list. You may not yet have a timing, feeling that God has called the church to a specific action, but as yet as not given a time scale. That's His prerogative!

=> The second statement describes what the church is like when the vision has been reached. This can be a powerful way of helping people feel the vision - it doesn't necessarily need to be accurate in every degree, and details can be firmed up later.