OUR VISION

Here at the Upper Room we are committed to following the principals of the early church found in the book of Acts chapters 2 - 6. This is, in fact, the blueprint for the way "the church" was intended to operate. The early church not only provided spiritual empowerment, but economic and social empowerment as well! The church in the book of Acts, our original blue print and first model, did just that! We believe that the church's influence should reach and extend beyond its four walls into its communities and its economic structures. What was meant as a point of ridicule and scorn in Acts 17:6 should be the anthem of the church in this millenium. We've been saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Spirit of God for the express purpose of turning the world upside down! The vision that we believe God has given this called out assembly is designed to do just that!

It is the vision of God for this called out assembly to:

† Be a place that mirrors the spirit and attitude of the early church at Jerusalem.

† Help equip disciples by creating a climate for healthy spiritual and emotional growth in order that gifts, anointings and talents will be realized, perfected and brought to maturity.

† Build self-esteem and greater family cohesiveness through economic empowerment by supplying opportunities to gain marketable skills, making them more attractive in the job market.

† Effect the local economy through ownership of property and business establishments that promote Godly, Christian values and concepts and employ disciples of the Most High God.

† Provide Christian entertainment and leisure where young Disciples of Christ can come and have a good time without compromising their lifestyles and witness for Jesus.

† Acquire transitional housing facilities for families in need of temporary shelter.

† Formulate an employment network primarily for Disciples of Christ with a past (jail, prison, etc.) that tries to threaten their future.

† Acquire properties (townhomes, apartments, single-family homes, etc.) for low-income individuals and families.

† Have full-time ministerial staff of 120 with full benefits and comparable salaries, special incentives and allowances (special housing and food discounts, etc.).

† Outgrow a 4000 seat sanctuary in 3 years.

† Have a fleet of mini-buses (at least 8) and large capacity vans and Suburban type vehicles for the transporting of Disciples of Christ to and from ministry sponsored or supported activities.

† Raise up, empower and inspire an 8,000-member army of Christian disciples "souled" out to the Will and the purpose of God.

† Acquire and build upon a 45-acre plot, a total ministry facility that will minister to the "whole" man (spirit, soul, and body). This includes a Family Life Center, ministry owned and operated businesses, recreational facilities, school of ministry, and a spiritual retreat.

† Open Christian grocery stores for poor and low-income families.

† Plant and aid other churches and ministries all over the world.

† Support and sow seed into fruitful and successful ministries.

† Establish FREE "Tape Ministry" stations at participating locales throughout the city and county, featuring a Sunday message or teaching and an invitation to discipleship (invite Christ into their heart) at the end.