Our Vision
“When being is divorced from doing, pious thoughts become a substitute for washing dirty feet.” Brennan Manning
“The beginning of this love is the will to let those we love be perfectly themselves, the resolution not to twist them to fit our own image. If in loving them we do not love what they are, but only the potential likeness to ourselves, then we do not love them: We only love the reflection of ourselves we find in them. Can this be charity?” Thomas Merton, No Man is an Island
The Samaria-Driven Church...
...Understands the power of social servant-hood.
Jesus began His public ministry with the water and the wine, He ended it with the water and the towel.
...Never approaches people with caution and suspicion.
One person’s behavior has nothing to do with the potential behavior of someone else.
...Inspires people to conquer the power of social conditioning.
Like Peter, we need a miracle of the heart to overcome our fears.
...Responds immediately to the cry “Remember me.”
Jesus offered total inclusion and absolute inheritance.
...Believes that “belonging” is more important than “having.”
Unity, especially among leaders, is the key to everything.
...Celebrates, instead of tolerates, people.
Like Paul, we must never accept the idea of living “aloof.”
Our Five Most Important Characteristics
Extravagant Worship
“Father, I commit my Spirit into your hands.” Luke 24:46
Authentic Family
“Then he [thief] said, ‘Jesus, remember me’…and Jesus replied, ‘I assure you, today, you will be with me in paradise.’” Luke 24:42-43
Relentless Compassion
“Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34
Multiplication
“‘Don’t cling to me,’ said Jesus, ‘but go and tell…’” John 20:17
Passion and Sacrifice
“Jesus knew that His mission was now finished….he said, ‘It is finished.’” John 19:28-30
