5 Guiding Statements

We recognize that our future as a congregation depends on FBCH providing meaning in the lives of those with whom we interact (existing participants and community at large) and on financial sustainability.

1. Connect to God: It is a human characteristic to seek connection with the Holy within ourselves, within others, and within creation. For many at FBCH, a primary place for seeking this connection is the Sunday morning worship service. In addition, we would like to provide opportunities that encourage a multitude of avenues of spiritual exploration informed by the broad Christian tradition that meet the diverse needs of the larger community.

2. Connect to Community: We are social beings who not only desire but require community to live and to thrive. We seek to deepen our connection among those who already participate in our common life. We also need to broaden our reach to connect with more of our neighbours and in doing so will better reflect the diversity of the surrounding community.

3. Do Justice: From our beginnings in 1827, FBCH has sought to live out the words of Micah 6:8 “Listen here, mortal: God has already made abundantly clear what ‘good’ is and what is needed from you: simply do justice, love kindness, and humbly walk with your God.” (Inclusive Bible) Building on this tradition, we seek to extend our voice and our efforts to do justice for our neighbours and for the good of all creation.

4.  Financial Sustainability: The financial stability of FBCH depends on the active contributions of its participants AND on developing other revenue streams that are in line with our core values.

5. Renewed Governance: Honouring the freedoms at the centre of our Baptist heritage, we practice broad-based, informed decision-making that actively seeks input from all participants. Recognizing this as a core of our shared life, we also acknowledge that our current structures need adjustments to meet the needs of a changing congregation. We will develop governance structures that seek to be responsible, flexible, nimble, and fearless