Core Values are principles that ground our actions and decisions. They guide everything we do as a congregation and help us stay focused on what is important to God (and therefore also to us). By God’s grace we will not compromise these principles as we live the new life God has given us in Christ.
Gospel-Centered and Biblically Faithful Teaching
After Jesus rose from the dead, He sent his followers to teach everything He had commanded them (Matthew 28:18-20). These teachings were recorded in the Scriptures, which we believe are the written Word of God. At the heart of the Bible is the good news (Gospel) that Jesus died for us on the cross and that whoever believes in Jesus will be saved (John 3:16). In everything we teach and preach we strive to uplift the Gospel and remain faithful to the Scriptures.
Caring Relationships
Christians are members of God’s own household (Ephesians 2:19). That makes us a family. In baptism we are united to Jesus and to each other more closely than we are united to our biological families (1 Corinthians 12:12-13). As we try to be a healthy family, we strive to be proactive in taking care of one another, supporting one another, and encouraging one another.
Everyone Active in Congregational Service
God has given each of us different abilities and interests. He has sent us to use these in service to others (1 Peter 4:10). We serve in many ways and in many places—at home, at work, in our communities, and in our congregations. When all members contribute to the mission and ministry of our congregation in a small way, we are able to accomplish big things.
Intentional Involvement in the Community
Jesus said that we are the light of the world (Matthew 5:12). He told us to shine so that all may know His love and mercy. It may seem obvious, but for the world to see this light, we must be out in the world. This is why we are focused on involving ourselves in the community and actively serving those who are in need.
Unchurched People Matter
God wants all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). That’s why He sent Jesus. Because he cares for all people, so do we. Everything we do as a congregation is directed toward bringing the forgiveness and life of Christ to those who are living and dying apart from Him.
Membership in the Greater Body of Christ
No Christian individual or congregation is alone (1 Corinthians 12:12-13). As members of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS), we work together with over 6000 congregations in the United States and more than 30 international church bodies worldwide. We are also united, by virtue of our baptism, with all Christians in other traditions and denominations. As we go about our mission and ministry here at New Life, we are intentional about working together with the rest of the body of Christ—especially fellow congregations in the LCMS.