Vision Statement

In Baptist doctrine, churches are independent and autonomous, but may voluntarily elect to form associations with other churches for mutual efforts.  As described by Baptist historian, Robert Semple, “An association is a council or assembly comprised of delegates or representatives from each church within the bounds designated for that purpose.  The Baptist churches are independent and consequently the business of an association is not authoritative.  They may advise, and indeed urge their advice, but cannot compel.”

The Book of Acts teaches that the purposes of the New Testament Church are evangelism, ministry, discipleship, fellowship and worship (Acts 2:46-47).  Since their earliest beginnings, Virginia Baptist churches have associated with each other to carry out these purposes.

The vision of the James River Baptist Association is to assist the associated churches in fulfilling their purpose through the following activities:

   1.  Promote, coordinate and implement mission efforts that focus on local, regional, national and international needs through the collection and dissemination of information on missionary opportunities, organizing and scheduling both local and distant mission events, supporting with prayers and finances those making mission trips and supporting the efforts of the JRBA WMU.

   2.  Promote a spirit of fellowship and cooperation among all associated churches by actively focusing on those things that unite us rather than those that divide and by providing ample opportunity for Christian fellowship.

   3.  Serve as a resource for pastoral care that includes mentoring, counseling, mediation and the education of churches on how to care for pastors.

   4.  Serve as an education resource  and conduit of information to and from the associated churches, by providing regular and abundant information through the publication of a regularly scheduled newsletter, the convening of annual spring and fall meetings and both the communication and provision of training opportunities for church and association officers and committee members.