Strategic Vision
Promote the understanding that each parish and mission is the Diocese serving in their community
The hope driving this priority is to address with sensitivity the “us and them,” “inside Shelby County or outside Shelby County” or any other dividing category some described the many parts of the Body of Christ called the Diocese of West Tennessee. We need to raise awareness that each parish and mission constitutes the Diocese in its respective community through vital ministries and particular gifts. While we vary in size and location, together we all are the Diocese of West Tennessee. The Diocese is not a separate entity but one body with interconnected communities of faith, love and service. As in I Corinthians 12:12-37, we are one body with many members.
Potential effects upon existing diocesan structures and current organizations:
- Diocesan Staff – in providing training opportunities/resources that promote and emphasize the understanding that we are one Church in mission
- Bishop and Council – in supporting diocesan initiatives
- Diocesan Convention, Diocesan Picnic – in celebrating our life together as a Diocese
- Church Home Grants – an avenue for financial support to support “local” expressions of ministry across the Diocese
- Communications – internal campaign to promote this “one Church” understanding, form diocesan committees, provide resources/support
