OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Reaching people to become committed followers of Jesus Christ
Ojai Presbyterian Church is focused on proclaiming the Lordship of Jesus Christ. We offer many different opportunities and experiences for people to encounter the love of God in real and tangible ways, with a specific focus on children and student ministries. We are glad you are considering checking us out, and we hope you will encounter the living God through our church. Our hope is that you would find both a place to be ministered to as well as a place that challenges you to be a minister in the world.
OUR PURPOSE
What is the purpose of the church? In a denomination as diverse as ours, one might suppose that there would be a lack of clarity concerning the mission and purpose of the church. To the contrary, our Book of Order lays out six specific ends of the church. This is our way of stating what the church is called to be and do in the world today.
“The proclamation of the gospel for the salvation of humankind; The shelter, nurture and spiritual fellowship of the children of God; The maintenance of divine worship, The preservation of the truth; The promotion of social righteousness; The exhibition of the Kingdom of Heaven to the world.”
L.O.V.E.
Lead people to faith in Christ
In his final words to his friends, Jesus gave the great commission to the church. At his command, we are called to preach the gospel to the ends of the earth and make disciples of all nations. Wherever our congregation is called to serve, we hold up this first principle of God's purpose for the church.
Offer a clear path of spiritual growth
Christians are offered a glorious life in the Spirit when Christ is confessed as Savior and Lord. This growth, however, does not occur automatically. Over many years, the church has discovered habits and practices which can help the believer develop their true potential in Jesus Christ. Our church is committed, through worship and program, to help men and women grow in faith, hope and love.
Validate a personal ministry for each member
The Apostle Paul wrote, "There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord." By this, we understand that each believer is given unique gifts and abilities to use for the common good. We are committed to helping each person discern their special gifts so that they can find the joy of using those gifts in a personal ministry validated by the church.
Equip believers to serve God's purposes in the world
As a congregation of Christian men and women, we seek to serve the ongoing purposes of God in the world today. We worship and serve a living Lord who has called his children to join Him in a great plan of extending the Kingdom of God to the ends of the earth and the depths of the human heart. We set aside our own agenda and purpose as we seek to intentionally build up believers with a heart for God's will and work in the world.