We’ve all gone to the doctor and had our vital signs taken. The doctor checks our
heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, height, weight, etc. These tests are done to
develop a baseline for our health. If the numbers are in a normal range for our age and
circumstances, our body is healthy and working the way it should. If the numbers are
abnormal – too high or too low, or otherwise indicate a variance from what they
should be – then there may be a problem that needs addressed. We may require
medication or certain lifestyle changes to restore our body to its proper functioning.
We know the basic vital signs for a person, but do we know the vital signs of a church? How do we
assess if our church is functioning in a healthy way? Our denomination’s Presbyterian Mission Agency
has developed a list of seven marks, or vital signs, of a healthy church. These include:
• Lifelong discipleship formation
• Ecclesial health
• Intentional Authentic Evangelism
• Outward Incarnational Focus
• Empowering Servant Leadership
• Spirit-Inspired Worship
• Caring Relationships
Our presbytery will be taking part in a denominational initiative to help churches better cultivate
these vital marks. I will share more about this initiative and how our congregation may wish to
participate as more details become available. I’m excited to see how God will work in and through us
to produce these signs of vitality that we may be a blessing in our community.
Blessings,
Hilary
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