VISION
“Loving God, Loving People”
MISSION
We will lead people closer to Jesus, through our diverse regional church family that embraces all ages and all cultures. By the empowering of the Holy Spirit, we are compelled by the great commandment and great commission: to love God, to love people, and to go into our world and make disciples. Our rich Baptist and bi-cultural heritage will shape our ongoing journey together, as we seek to see lives and communities transformed.
VALUES
Our values are encapsulated in the word WELCOME.
Whanau welcoming all ages, cultures and abilities
Encounter with God’s presence, prayer, worship, spiritual growth
Leading people closer to Jesus and the gospel message
Celebration and serving in practical ways together
Outward focus on God’s mission to our region and world
Mentoring close trusted relationships and discipleship
Embracing diversity through our Baptist and bi-cultural heritage
Our beliefs
Biblical authority
Baptists believe the Bible is the inspired word of God given to humankind for guidance and instruction on how to live life to its fullest.
Congregational government
Baptists do not have a hierarchy of positions within their churches or their denomination. We believe all members are equal, all are able to hear the voice of God, and all have a contribution to make to the running of the church. We relate to one another and support one another, but each separate congregation makes decisions on how their church will function.
Believer’s baptism
Baptists believe baptism is for believers; a sign of an individual’s faith in Christ and their commitment to following Him. We believe that the preferred means of baptism is full immersion.
Liberty of conscience
Baptists believe in the freedom of religion and the separation of church and state.
Statement of faith
- The true humanity and Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ.
- The atonement made on the cross by our Lord for the sin of the world.
- The person of the Holy Spirit as the one who sets apart, empowers, and imparts spiritual gifts to the Church.
- The inspiration of the Bible and its authority in all matters of faith and practice.
- Salvation and membership in the Church by faith in Christ alone.
- Membership of the church for the regenerate.
- The immersion of believers as the Scriptural form of water baptism.
Whānau Statements
In our Church Whānau, every language, tribe and tongue is of value. We embrace the diversity amongst us, and we are open to God’s lead wherever he may take us on the bi-cultural and multi-cultural journey.
In our Church Whānau, we respect and partner with Franklin Baptist Church staff. We stand shoulder to shoulder serving God and we work together to achieve His mission amongst us.
In our Church Whānau, we follow a “how can I help” approach. If we see something that needs change or improvement, we take responsibility as individuals to proactively and constructively work with the relevant Leadership Team member or Ministry Leader to address the matter.
In our Church Whānau, we carefully consider how our thoughts, speech and actions may impact one another. We show love and respect, and we receive/give feedback to each other with grace and humility.
In our Church Whānau, we affirm both men and women equally in leadership and service. We encourage all people to discover where God is calling them to serve.