Typically, a family mission statement would reflect the thoughts and ideas of everyone in the family with each person who is old enough contributing to its formation. We tend to support ideas better when we "own" them. Furthermore, the very act of compiling it helps family members to clarify, prioritize and move forward together. In other words, the process of writing the statement can be almost as useful as living by the statement itself. And the words are not final; revisions and amendments should be made periodically as needed.

A family mission statement is not about goals and plans. Such as hopes and dreams can support and activate the statement, but they're not the statement itself. Rather, it's a statement, or declaration, of who we are and the best that we can be; the purpose of our life together, the values we stand for; the priorities that regulate us; the love we share; the commitments we have made to ourselves, to one another and to the Lord.

It's not intended for a family mission statement to be used to threaten or inflict guilt. Rather, its purpose is to inspire and bless the family. Hopefully, it should help all family members to contribute in a real way to the physical and spiritual good of the home. It should help everyone be part of an eternal family and a home that can last forever.

Here is a sample family mission statement:

Ours is a family of goodly parents and children who walk in truth. We stand for obedience, integrity, love, honor and service.

We love the Lord. We show this best by keeping His commandments, by honoring the covenants we have made with Him, and by serving our fellow men.

We love each other. We show this best by caring for, helping and encouraging one another. We are charter members of each others "fan clubs". We support fellow family members by "being there" for them. We are loyal, especially when others are disloyal. We are peacemakers by being bigger than any problem, by making the best of any situation, and by turning "the other cheek" when appropriate.

We work together to create a setting, our home, which is most conducive to our growth and progress. We do this best by keeping our house and yard clean and orderly. These same conditions invite the Spirit of the Lord to prevail in our midst. Our home is a place of happiness, harmony and good times. It is a safe harbor, protecting us from the winds and storms of the world. Our home is the best place on earth for us. Our friends like to be there too.

Ours is a gospel centered home, and we have principle based lives. We hearken to the words of our Father in Heaven as made known to us through His representatives. Thus we say as family, "Speak, Lord, for they servant heareth." (1 Samuel 3:10).

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