OUR VISION
“DIOCESE OF NATAL,
LOVING COMMUNITIES”
“For God so love the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
MISSION STATEMENT
We, the Anglican Diocese of Natal,
are called in Christ to
love the world
by giving of ourselves fully
to serve God’s mission of salvation;
peace, justice and reconciliation.
“Put out into deep water and let down your nets for a catch” (Luke 5:4)
FIRST MARK: MATURITY IN FAITH (“DEEP WATER”)
“…to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:12-13)
Committed to encourage and foster a growing life in the Spirit of all in the church.
SECOND MARK: LIFE GIVING PRAYER AND WORSHIP
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24)
“God is spirit, and his worshippers must worship in spirit and truth: (John 4”24)
Seeking a deeper experience of the love of the Lord in prayer and joyful worship.
THIRD MARK: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT/LOVING OUTREACH
“If I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14)
Serving communities…
* engaged in fostering peace, justice and reconciliation;
* nurturing godly leaders.
FOURTH MARK: EVANGELISM AND INTENTIONAL DISCIPLESHIP
“…I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:2). “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15). “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
Called to proclaim the Good News and, by our life and teaching, nurture disciples into the knowledge and love of Jesus.
FIFTH MARK: UNITY/RELATIONAL MINISTRY
“Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God…make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” (Ephesians 4:1,3). “…help us persevere as living members of that holy fellowship, and to grow in love and obedience according to your will. (APB, 128)
Committed to make visible the character and love of Jesus, pursuing unity while respecting our diversity