The Vision Statement of Monona United Methodist Church
“Monona United Methodist Church is a Christ-centered, spirit-filled, and inclusive community, as we welcome all, embrace diversity, and boldly pursue justice to create a world filled with hope and grace.”
This vision statement is a profound declaration of Monona UMC’s identity and mission, filled with theological depth, biblical truth, and cultural relevance. Below is a breakdown of its key concepts through theological perspectives, biblical commentary (Old and New Testament), and cultural context—all in an uplifting and encouraging tone.
1. Christ-Centered
Theological Perspective:
To be Christ-centered means that Jesus Christ is the foundation, focus, and guiding force of Monona UMC’s faith and mission. This aligns with the Wesleyan emphasis on knowing God through Christ’s love and grace. In Methodism, Christ is seen as the source of salvation, transformation, and reconciliation in both personal faith and social engagement.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 9:6 calls Jesus the "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace," affirming that Christ is the center of God’s redemptive plan.
- New Testament: Colossians 1:17-18 proclaims, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”This underscores Christ’s supremacy and the necessity of making Him the heart of all that we do as a church.
Cultural Context:
In a rapidly changing world, people seek stability, truth, and hope. Being Christ-centered means that Monona UMC is an anchor for those who long for purpose, love, and spiritual depth in a culture often marked by confusion and division.
2. Spirit-Filled
Theological Perspective:
A Spirit-filled church is one empowered by the Holy Spirit, actively experiencing God’s presence, guidance, and renewal. In Wesleyan theology, this aligns with the movement of sanctification—God’s grace shaping us toward holiness and love. The Spirit leads worship, fuels justice, and empowers believers to live out their faith with courage.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: In Joel 2:28, God promises, “I will pour out my Spirit on all people,” foreshadowing the universal outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
- New Testament: Acts 2:4 records Pentecost when the disciples were “filled with the Holy Spirit” and began boldly proclaiming the Gospel, showing that a Spirit-filled church is one of dynamic action and transformation.
Cultural Context:
In a world where many feel spiritually dry or disconnected, a Spirit-filled church offers renewal, vitality, and a sense of belonging. Monona UMC, as a Spirit-led community, provides a space for healing, joy, and empowerment in everyday life.
3. Inclusive Community
Theological Perspective:
Inclusivity reflects God’s boundless love and the church’s call to welcome all people into the fold of grace. Methodism holds that God’s prevenient grace is extended to everyone, regardless of background, race, gender, or status. The church is a family where all are valued and embraced.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Leviticus 19:34 commands, “The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” This shows God’s desire for inclusivity.
- New Testament: Galatians 3:28 proclaims, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” The early church broke down divisions and welcomed all, just as Monona UMC seeks to do.
Cultural Context:
At a time when division is prevalent in society, Monona UMC’s inclusive stance is a powerful testimony to the world. By welcoming people from all walks of life, the church becomes a beacon of love, unity, and healing.
4. Welcoming All
Theological Perspective:
Radical hospitality is at the heart of Jesus’ ministry. To welcome all means the church embodies Christ’s love in tangible ways—offering a home for the lost, a refuge for the weary, and a family for the lonely.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Psalm 133:1 declares, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” God’s vision has always been one of a gathered and welcoming people.
- New Testament: Jesus declares in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Monona UMC extends this same invitation through radical hospitality.
Cultural Context:
In a world where many feel excluded or unseen, a truly welcoming church reflects God’s heart and counters the culture of rejection. Monona UMC’s warm embrace reassures people that they are loved and belong.
5. Embracing Diversity
Theological Perspective:
Diversity reflects the vastness of God’s creation and the fullness of the body of Christ. Every person brings unique gifts, perspectives, and cultures, all of which enrich the church’s mission.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Genesis 12:3 speaks of God’s promise to Abraham that “all peoples on earth will be blessed through you”—showing that God’s plan has always included diversity.
- New Testament: Revelation 7:9 envisions “a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language” worshiping God together. Diversity is not just tolerated in heaven—it is celebrated!
Cultural Context:
Diversity is not a challenge but a gift. In a world struggling with racism, division, and cultural misunderstandings, Monona UMC serves as a model of unity in diversity, showing that God’s love knows no bounds.
6. Boldly Pursuing Justice
Theological Perspective:
Justice is at the core of God’s kingdom. Methodists believe that faith must lead to action—speaking up for the marginalized, working toward systemic change, and ensuring that love is put into practice.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Micah 6:8 commands, “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” Justice is not optional—it is God’s requirement.
- New Testament: Luke 4:18-19 records Jesus declaring, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor… to set the oppressed free.” Jesus’ mission was one of justice, and so is ours.
Cultural Context:
In a time of economic inequality, racial injustice, and oppression, the church cannot be silent. Monona UMC’s commitment to justice brings hope to the oppressed and challenges systems that harm God’s children.
7. Creating a World Filled with Hope and Grace
Theological Perspective:
The ultimate goal of faith is to bring about God’s kingdom on earth—a world marked by hope, love, and unmerited grace.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Jeremiah 29:11 affirms, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
- New Testament: Romans 15:13 blesses believers, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.”
Cultural Context:
A church that radiates hope and grace transforms lives. In a culture often marked by fear and despair, Monona UMC stands as a lighthouse of God’s boundless love.
Conclusion
Monona UMC’s vision statement is more than just words—it is a call to action, a declaration of faith, and a promise to the world. This church is a living testimony of Christ’s love, the Spirit’s power, and God’s unshakable justice.
May Monona UMC continue to shine brightly, embrace all, and change the world with hope and grace!
