Encounter

Culture

OUR VISION

Encounter exists to create a space of connection to God and people that leads to daily personal encounters with God.

OUR VALUES

Who we are at our best.

Generosity

NO STRINGS ATTACHED

We don’t give to get. By giving freely of our time, treasure, and talents, we create a culture of kindness and compassion in our community.

2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Proverbs 11:25, Luke 6:38

Excellence

GIVE YOUR BEST

Perfection is found in Christ, but excellence is found in everything we do. We give our best in everything we do and inspires us to continually improve.

Colossians 3:23-24, Philippians 4:8, Proverbs 22:29

Honor

YOU BEFORE ME

We choose to act with Heaven in mind. Honor speaks to a person’s identity and original design. We do more than show respect; We give honor through our engagement with others.

Romans 12:10, 1 Peter 2:17, 1 Samuel 2:30

Endurance

MORE THAN ONE MILE

If nothing changes, could you keep this pace for years? We choose to slow down and build with endurance and longevity in mind.

James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-4, Hebrews 12:1

Communication

CLARITY

We believe that communication brings clarity. We choose to slow down and communicate clearly so that expectations are spoken and received.

Proverbs 18:21, Ephesians 4:29, James 1:19

Inclusive

COME ONE, COME ALL

We value inclusivity by welcoming all individuals, regardless of their background, and celebrating the diversity of God’s creation. This commitment helps us build a loving community where every voice is heard and valued.

Galatians 3:28, Romans 15:7, Matthew 5:14-16

Joy

BUBBLING FROM WITHIN

We value joy as an enduring expression of our faith, celebrating God’s goodness regardless of circumstances. This joy strengthens our community and inspires us to uplift one another.

Nehemiah 8:10, Psalms 16:11, Philippians 4:4

Thankfulness

THE SMALL HINGE

We want more of His presence. Thankfulness is the hinge that opens the door to more of God. Without thankfulness, we have a lot of walls instead of doors of opportunity to see the Lord.

Psalms 100:4, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Colossians 3:15

Flexibility

STRETCHING REQUIRED

We value flexibility as a way to adapt to the changing needs of our community and ministry. This openness allows us to embrace new ideas and approaches, fostering growth and connection.

Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 43:19, Philippians 4:12-13

Discipline

SPIRITUAL MATURITY 101

We value discipline as a vital practice that strengthens our faith and commitment to God. It empowers us to cultivate consistency in our spiritual lives, helping us grow closer to Him and serve others effectively.

Proverbs 12:1, 2 Timothy 1:7, 1 Corinthians 9:24-25

Intentionality

PURPOSEFUL ACTION

We do things with a purpose in mind. This is a guiding principle that shapes our actions and decisions and leads to deeper connections.

Proverbs 21:5, Colossians 3:23-24, Ephesians 5:15-16

Vulnerability

GET DEEP QUICK

Vulnerability is a strength that fosters authenticity, deeper connections, and true growth. Embracing weaknesses creates space for God’s grace and the support of others. It reflects humility and trust, acknowledging our need for God and community.

2 Corinthians 12:9, James 5:16, Galatians 6:2

Our Unique Characteristcs

We are Presence Driven

We are not built around any person or ministry. We are built around the presence of God. We consistently ask God for His mind and His heart for His house.

Exodus 33:13-18, Psalm 105:4, 1 Samuel 2:35

House of Prayer

Jesus could have called the tabernacle in Jerusalem anything, but He chose to use the phrase from the prophet Isaiah, “House of Prayer.” The house of prayer is the space we create where people connect with God corporately, where we encounter the Lord through Thanksgiving, Worship, and Intercession.

Isaiah 56:6-8, Psalm 100:4, Matthew 21:13

We empower Women in Ministry

We endorse and promote women in ministry. We empower women to fulfill the Biblical call of God on their lives.

Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:17, Acts 18:26

A big gathering and a small one.

Formal and informal.

Temples and tables.