What makes a vital congregation?

Characteristics of congregations committed to fully living as God’s blessing in community:

1. Vital ministries are centrally related to God’s love and blessing. Each local congregation is part of the Body of Christ and called to live and act as a sign and instrument of God’s kingdom (1 Cor. 3.6).
2. Vital congregations demonstrate an extraordinary sense of spiritual vitality and discipleship. These churches emphasize the study and teaching of Scripture, prayer, visionary leadership, inspirational worship, a willingness to take risks, generous hearts, and respect for all people and their differences.
3. Vital congregations are creatively intentional in outreach to new people and in reaching beyond the church’s walls to missions and ministry throughout the world.
4. Vital congregations have a passionate and clear sense of identity. These churches know who they are, what they believe, what they value, where they are going, and how they will get there.
5. Vital churches are flexible. They realize they do not have all the answers, so they ask probing and challenging questions.
6. Vital churches lead with their strengths while they
   • Acknowledge their weaknesses.
   • Live out the vision God has given them.
   • View other congregations as partners in God’s broader mission.