Vision and Values
Our vision is to see Toronto renewed spiritually, leading to cultural renewal that makes Toronto a great city in every way. We long for, and live for, the city of Toronto to be renewed, for it to become a place where grace and mercy reign, where peace is practiced and lived out, and where racial, ethnic, and socio-economic differences are removed by the power of the gospel.
Our vision is rooted in the good news that Jesus is lord of the city, the saviour and redeemer for the city, and the coming judge of the city. We long to see Him savoured and worshipped in every part of the city.
the gospel changes everything
This, in one sense, is our only core value because all others flow from it. We believe the gospel completely transforms not only our lives, but also how we view all of life. It changes how we view ourselves: we learn to admit that we are more sinful and selfish than we could have imagined. It changes how we view God: we learn to marvel that we are more loved and forgiven than we could ever dare hope. It transforms how we view others: as divine image-bearers of incredible value and dignity. From this central fountain flows all other core values.
the gospel creates a city within the city
The gospel creates what philosopher Augustine called a new city within the existing city: “the City of God.” In this city, mercy triumphs over judgment; collaboration replaces competition; equality replaces elitism; and people have intrinsic dignity, regardless of their station or standing in life. Love for God and others is the primary motivation for all that we do– in work, play, and rest. The new city becomes a sanctuary for those tired of or bruised by the brokenness of the old city. The new city inspires the old city by demonstrating that there is, indeed, a better way to live. The new city becomes a magnet for those who are seeking the peace of God in the midst of the tumult of the streets. The new city becomes a light where the glory of God, in the face of Christ, shines into our lives. We will work hard through small groups, personal mentoring and larger gatherings, to cultivate these gospel principles within our “new city.”
-Proverbs 29:18
