One-hundred years from now, when all of us at Mars Hill Church have come and gone, and a new generation is leading the church, what legacy will they inherit? Mars Hill is foremost committed to glorifying Jesus through the advancement of his kingdom. As we follow Jesus in hopes of building a vibrant and faithful church, the legacy for which we are striving is:

1. Local mission that transforms lives. Planting churches and adding campuses to see more people on mission for Jesus and countless lives changed by the gospel.
2. Biblical and gospel-centered preaching and theology. This is necessary for Christians to mature and for non-Christians to hear the truth. Preaching is our most visible ministry, reaching thousands in Seattle and millions around the world.
3. Leadership development that equips our people. Without leaders, the Bible is not taught, people are not cared for, and the mission is not led. Discipleship takes place informally through individual and community relationships, and formally through rigorous theological and practical training. At Mars Hill, plans are in the works to establish a world-class training center for leaders throughout the church.
4. Stewardship of strategic assets. These include finances, technology, and real estate that, if handled well, create a stable infrastructure for mission, preaching, resource distribution, and leadership development. We are always looking for opportunities for enhancing our current ministry and for securing wise investments for the future.
Proverbs 16:9 says, "The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." This verse is both a challenge for man to prepare, and a reminder that God is in control. We will continue our aggressive expansion effort to transform Seattle and the surrounding region with the power of the gospel, and trust Jesus our Senior Pastor to guide the way. As 2008 ends, we reflect on the great gifts of the past year—new campuses in downtown Seattle and in Olympia, a new location on the Eastside, 43 new churches started through the Acts 29 Network, and the launch and sale of The City. Whether you attend Mars Hill Church or benefit from our ministry from afar, I invite you to participate in our work in 2009, which we dedicate to God and accomplish according to his will. In his name alone is our legacy assured. The name of Jesus is the only name that will never fade.