the journey
values
We must live holistically
To see life other than holistic is to separate God from the total possibilities of life’s journey. Schizophrenia is the result of functioning as if life were pieces of a fractured puzzle rather than wholly united. We accept that God knows our best in how we are to develop and grow as individuals and a people.
A faith community is to think outside itself
The reality of fellowship with Jesus requires that we connect beyond our own sectarian walls. The fellowship of believers and the love of others is a heart pulse in the soul of Christ. Connecting relationships are expansive allowing the Spirit to show His grace and mercy.
The ancient and future are important for us today
As part of the larger kingdom of God, we must see our connection to other believers. Both the individual and the community of God’s people will find reality and depth in seeing the past (ancient) and the emerging (future) coexisting today (present). Past believers, Scriptures, and Prophets give sense to this connection. This importance is in terms of Faith (ancient), Hope (future), and Love (present).
Belonging is part of relationship
God’s creation is for relationship, why would He bother otherwise. Creation expresses that belonging with God and one another. Whether in a large group, social functions, personal interaction, or intimate encounter, all are places where we can find God and express ourselves.
Open acceptance is a necessity
Acceptance is an active function of God and His character of Grace. Without acceptance, we have our shortcomings and sins always in front of us. It is true that every follower of Christ has a past story, but every sinner has a future of acceptance. Acceptance is a needful ingredient in all of our interactions; it allows us all to be part of each other’s story. This allows all of us to move forward on our spiritual journey.
Community starts with its people
A community gathered around a growing faith in Jesus can add richness to life not found elsewhere. Worship, service, mission, purpose, and family find themselves in community. However, each person is not to be "fed" by the community but the community is to be "fed" by each person. A community of Christ is not a service industry but the presence of Jesus demonstrated by the personality and character of each person in that community.
Room for the beauty of creative expression
God calls all of His creation good. Tarnished by sin, yet the core of creation retains that beauty and harmony. The initial fabric of humankind continues the desire to show these creative and artistic expressions. the gate chooses to be open to the Creator and the developing creative expression of His people.