OUR VISION

God has moved like a breath of fresh air on a hot humid Houston day in the middle of summer. As the people of First Christian Church have come together and sought God’s purpose for this church, God has honored our desire by giving clarity of vision. Much went into discerning our vision. Most of our congregation was involved in the process to some degree. And it is amazing to witness the work of the Holy Spirit opening us to a new adventure.

In January 2007, our pastor and a leadership team called the “Advisory Team” began an incredible journey. Our purpose was to lead a process of transformation for our church that would reverse a 45 year decline in membership and attendance, while at the same time create a unity of purpose that would draw us all together as one. The result was that a significant portion of our number are preparing for a future we believe God has made clear. We believe that God is honoring our genuine searching of His will and purpose for our lives and church.

By God’s grace, First Christian Church Houston Texas has established a 3-5 year Visionpath. This Visionpath is not something that will be put on the shelf for review in 2 years, but rather something that will call our congregation and others into a vital relationship with Jesus Christ. It is intended for action rather than casual reading. This is something that our congregation believes in with our whole heart, mind, and soul. It is our hope that when you read our Visionpath that you feel empowered by the Holy Spirit to rededicate your life to His service.

It is our Vision that First Christian Church will be:

• Empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring people into vital relationship with Jesus Christ;
• Equipping leaders who are committed to personal transformation and love for one another;
• Nurturing spiritual growth through connected relationships; and
• Committed to whole family ministry.

Empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring people into a vital relationship with Jesus Christ
Goal:

• Connect 100 new people to our church

Action Plan:

1. Redevelopment of the church’s website
2. Start a second worship service
3. Build partnership – connections to the community with other organizations
4. Organize topic driven information sessions

Team Leaders:

• Matthew Thompson
• Karla Driskell

Equipping Leaders committed to person transformation
Goal:

• Train 20+ people to serve in leadership roles

Action Plan:

1. Conduct leadership retreat and/or workshops with outside instruction
2. Create independent development study groups with trained leaders to study books and resources related to leadership and personal transformation

Team Leaders:

• Michael Dunn
• Grayson Moss

Nurturing Spiritual Growth through connected relationships
Goal:

• Involve 50 additional people in a small group

Action Plan:

1. Call staff member whose main ministry is to connect people to small groups
2. Knowles Hall display of small group ministries descriptions and contact information
3. Spotlight various small group ministries

Team Leader:

• Tiffani Sealock

Committed to ministry of the Whole Family
Goal:

• Develop or enhance seven Christ centered programs or events that results in 25 new families being connected to First Christian Church

Action Plan:

1. Call a dedicated staff to help implement the vision
2. Build around VBS to connect new families and enhance existing family involvement

Team Leader:

• Brent Tarver