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Mission Statement
WE ARE DIFFERENT!
1. WE'RE A HOSPITAL FOR SINNERS---NOT A MUSEUM FOR SAINTS!
The typical church evaluates its success by building programs and attendance and offerings. We don't measure our growth by "nickels and noses." We never use threats or emotional manipulation to motivate people. Instead, we try to pass on seeds of insight that will flourish over the long term. We think a few deeply committed believers will be more influential than a horde of shallow, inconsistent believers. As Jesus said, "A little leaven will eventually permeate the whole loaf."
We present a balanced program that includes both information and inspiriation. We follow a carefully organized calendar for the year. We correlate the Sunday morning message with a Sunday night open forum. We even distribute printed copies of all sermons. Differing from most Southern Baptist Churches, we are very ecumenical. Tom is a small community and we believe it is our duty (really it's a privilege) to minister to everyone regardless of denominational affiliation.
We are different!
Come and see for yourself!Most churches seem to be pre-occupied with sin and condemnation. They constantly point out what's wrong with the world. They're critical and judgmental of people's lifestyles. We're different. We're accepting and affirming! We give people hope. We emphaize those aspects of the gospel that apply to real life situations. We welcome both sinners and hypocrites because Jesus said, "If you're well, you don't need a doctor." If you're perfectly moral, you don't need a savior. If you have to become good before coming to church, then, there's no point in coming. Hospitals don't kick out those who are sick or injured. That would defeat their very purpose! Neither do we! 2. WE'RE A FAMILY WITH CONCERN, NOT AN INSTITUTION WITH REQUIREMENTS. The typical church has power plays, theological dispites and leadership shake-ups every few years. These diagreements lead to bitteness and alienation that continues for generations. We have worked together for decades with a unified spirit. Jesus said love must be our trademark. Without that we're imposters. Unloving Christians do tremendous damage to the kingdom of God.
As a church family, we reach out to others. We honor individual members and celebrate their successes. We include everyone in planning and presenting programs. We involve men, women, youth and children in every phase of our activities. We especially encourage the use of special abilities and talents. We emphasize inclusiveness by covering the experiences and events of the entire community, in our monthly newsletter, The TOM NEWS; not just our church membership. 3. WE EMPHASIZE PRACTICAL MINISTRY, NOT PURITY OF DOCTRINE! The typical church is hung-up on a correct belief system. It's absolutely fanatical about getting the right Scriptural intepretaion. It thinks it has the truth, and anyone who differs or even questions, is dead wrong. We realize that cultures and backgrounds and viewpoints vary. We appreciate all honest seekers and are extremely tolerant of diverse opinions. After all, it's the fruit that's important.
4. WE'RE HERE TO OFFER BENEFITS, NOT TO IMPOSE DUTIES
The typical church tries to make people feel guilty if they miss any activites or fail to support any project. We are extremely considerate of our members' time. We consolidate services and allow people to choose those that they feel will meet their needs. We learn through discussion, not indoctrination.
We provide a counseling support system with trained professionals for those in crises or bereavement. We encourage intellectual and spiritual growth through down-to-earth practical messages, study groups and workshops.
We offer opportunities for service in leadership roles and specific areas of interest and expertise. 5. WE'RE INTERESTED IN QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY
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