Why Steven Furtick Is Right About Your Brand
Without Knowing Who Your Church Is, You'll Spend Your Ministry “Covering Up Insecurities"
When it comes to exemplary church branding, Elevation Church in North Carolina often stands out. Much of this distinction is attributed to its founder, Steven Furtick, and his vision for creating a brand that truly sets their ministry apart. In a heartfelt 2018 address to Elevation's youth, Furtick shared a powerful message: "...You got to be your own brand. You can wear Off-White, you can be Nike, Adidas, whatever you want... But if you don't know who you are, and if you don't know that you belong to God and that you're called by His name, you'll actually spend your whole life trying to cover up all of your insecurities." This perspective, while initially directed at personal identity, holds profound implications for the branding of a local church. At Form & Function, we've been privileged to help shape some of the nation's largest and most impactful ministries, and a consistent truth has emerged: authenticity in your story is not just your starting point; it’s the key to realizing the vision you dream of. In church branding, it’s not just about creating a visual identity; it’s about forging an authentic narrative that resonates with your community's faith journey.
In this blog, we delve into the importance of clear vision and mission statements in church branding and how they significantly benefit your church community. Branding, in a church context, transcends mere aesthetics. It's the embodiment of your church's values, beliefs, and the community you foster. Unlike corporate branding, which often hinges on consumerism, church branding is about creating a home, a sanctuary that reflects and nurtures the spiritual journey of its members.
A vision statement is your church's beacon, guiding you toward your ultimate goal. It's aspirational, painting a picture of the impact your church wishes to make. An effective vision statement is clear, inspiring, and reflects the unique purpose of your congregation. The mission statement, in contrast, is the practical, everyday path your church walks to realize its vision. It outlines the actions, the services, and the community involvement that defines your daily operations. Together, these statements intertwine to form a coherent narrative of who you are and what you stand for, providing a clear brand identity that resonates both within your walls and in the wider community. Effectively conveying your vision and mission is crucial. This extends to all facets of communication, from the pulpit to social media, and is reinforced through your church's visual identity.
Living out your brand means ensuring your church's activities and decisions consistently reflect your vision and mission. Engaging your congregation in this brand narrative fosters a strong, united community. The journey of defining your church's brand begins with a sincere reflection on your vision and mission. It's about crafting a narrative that aligns with your core beliefs and the impact you wish to make. Remember, the story you live out today becomes the legacy you leave tomorrow. Let's take inspiration from Elevation Church and Steven Furtick's approach: be true to your identity, and let that authenticity be the light that guides your path forward.
For over a decade, Form & Function has been at the forefront of crafting compelling narratives for some of the nation's leading ministries through our best-in-class branding workshops. If you're ready to elevate your church's story and identity, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Connect with us to discuss how we can support your ministry's journey toward a resonant and impactful brand. Reach out to a member of our team at admin@formandfunctionmedia.com.
