Developing a purpose statement

A small group got to work on the first draft. This is what they came up with, recognizing that it needs some editorial tidying, and inviting suggestions for improvement:

Draft 1

The New Association of Friends is a Christian Quaker organization created to provide a place where Meetings, Churches and individuals can be part of a safe, compassionate and diverse spiritual community where each is encouraged and supported in their search for fellowship with others in relationship with God. Connected by a shared history and cooperative re-articulating of what it means to be a Friend, the New Association of Friends provides opportunities for worship, fellowship, service and exploration of faith issues for all seeking the Light and Love of Christ Jesus.

One suggestion for improvement was offered. The author said: "If we keep the proposed statement, I suggest that we break it down into shorter sentences, and separate each sentence with an extra line to make it more digestible."

 Draft 2

The New Association of Friends is a Christian Quaker organization created to provide a place where Meetings, Churches and individuals can be part of a safe, compassionate and diverse spiritual community.

Each of us is encouraged and supported in their search for fellowship with others in relationship with God. 

Connected by a shared history and cooperative re-articulating of what it means to be a Friend, the New Association of Friends provides opportunities for worship, fellowship, service and exploration of faith issues for all seeking the Light and Love of Christ Jesus.

*****

We will probably need to add to any purpose statement

"The New Association of Friends, Inc. is the legal entity holding the collective assets of this association."