Five Principles of Faith Formation

Five Principles of Faith Formation

The Five Principles identify the relational nature of the church. This foundational orientation helps congregational leaders see the work of the church beyond the venue of congregational activities. Through a variety of relationships and daily life experiences the Holy Spirit works in people’s lives to form faith. The church that lives as the community of saints includes—but involves more than—a weekly experience in a local congregation. The life and work of the church incorporates the primary life setting of our daily lives at home and work with the more public setting of faith communities in congregations. Using these five principles broadens our understanding of the church and how faith is encouraged and formed.

1. Faith is formed by the power of the Holy Spirit through personal, trusted relationships – often in our own homes.
2. The church is a living partnership between the ministry of the congregation and ministry of the home.
3. Where Christ is present in faith, the home is church, too!
4. Faith is caught more than it is taught.
5. If we want Christian children and youth, we need Christian adults who practice the faith with them.