Goals and Guiding Principles

A Statistical Overview of the Synod; on Vision, Passion, Action; and the Election of a New Bishop (January 2012)

Goals and Guiding Principles (color)

Goals and Guiding Principles (black and white)

2008 Assembly Report

2008 VPA Survey Report

2006 Assembly Report

Linda Bobbitt, RMS Vice President
2011 Asembly Presentation

Vision, Passion, Action

RMS Purpose:
Every person, every congregation, every ministry, boldly serving God's mission in Christ.

Ministry Audit PowerPoint Presentation
Ministry Audit Presentation Script

Vision Passion Action is not a program, but a movement, a development, an invitation in the life of the Rocky Mountain Synod for every person, every ministry, and every congregation. Its impact is not a package to be received or a product to be pushed, but it is to help create bolder leaders, courageous congregations and a true reformation spirit that allows us to adapt well to a changing world and changing needs.

What began as conversations grew into a strategic planning effort that has changed this synod. Lay and rostered leaders from around the synod gathered several times to give input to and review our synod's purpose, goals and guiding principles. Once adopted the vision and priorities identified through VPA began by guiding changes to the budget, organizational structure, staffing and the roles of synod council. In 2012 as part of the Bishop election process, a follow-up report was completed to evaluate the state of the synod and the impact VPA has had on the synod to date.  This information is being considered by voting members as they prepare to elect a new Bishop at the 2012 synod assembly.  

VPA Timeline

2008 Implementation (Synod & Synod Council structure)

• Adopted VPA purpose, goals and guiding principles
• Transition Road Map

2009 Implementation (Synod & Synod Council structure)

• Youth & Household Ministry
• Revise budget using VPA priorities in light of economic downturn
• Choose 3 priorities to focus efforts: Faith Formation, Healthy Congregations & Leaders, Connections

2010 Implementation (Synodical Infrastructure and strengthening connections)

• Revise Board/Committee structure
• Conference of Deans studies their role
• Expand and add networks across congregations
• Continue work on 3 priorities: Faith Formation, Healthy Congregations & Leaders, Connections

2011 Implementation (Increased Congregational involvement)

• Review practices in light of LIFT
• Expand networks via Macedonia project & more
• Bishop Election Process begins using VPA & LIFT guiding principles
• Ministry Audit reviews progress to date

2012+ Congregational Mission Plans

• Bishop Election will be held at 2012 Assembly