Our Mission & Vision
Our vision is to unite the church to transform the city.
Our mission is to mobilize God’s people and resources by creating a hub of connection, communication, and collaboration.
Scripture that Supports our Values
Ephesians 4:3-7
3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.
John 17:23
23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
Our Story
In the summer of 2014, Emma Baltezore founded One Christian Network after a pivotal experience. The year before, Emma helped organize a citywide prayer march for racial reconciliation. This event showcased the transformative power of unity within the body of Christ, especially in a city with a deep history of racial division dating back to the 1898 coup d’état. As leaders gathered to build trusting relationships before the march, over 1000 people joined in prayer, worship, and unity. The impact was profound, but Emma sensed the need for ongoing efforts beyond that moment.
Drawing from her past experiences with various outreaches and ministries, Emma recognized another common challenge- the difficulty of spreading information about events and resources, often leading to duplication. This realization, coupled with the urgency to foster trust across racial and denominational lines, became the catalyst for the inception of One Christian Network. The organization was born from a dual purpose: to strengthen relationships and facilitate effective communication of resources and events within the community. We believe one connection can change a situation, a life, or a community. We foster those connections! Will you join us as we build a hub for the body of Christ to work together for Wilmington?
Our Values: I-PULSE
Innovation
At our core, we embrace innovation as a means to effectively carry out our mission of unifying the body of Christ. We continuously seek fresh ideas and creative solutions to mobilize God’s people and resources. By fostering a spirit of innovation, we remain adaptable and responsive to the ever-changing needs of our community and world.
Prayer
Acknowledging the importance of reliance on God with everything we do. Seeking guidance, wisdom, and strength through prayer in both personal and collective endeavors, recognizing it as the foundation of how change happens.
Unity
Embracing the diversity of the Christian community while fostering a sense of solidarity and cohesion. Striving to build bridges across denominational, backgrounds, and racial lines to achieve common goals, recognizing the strength and beauty in collective oneness.
Love
Embodying the core Christian principle of love, extending compassion, kindness, and empathy towards all individuals. Cultivating an environment where people feel unconditionally cared for in tangible ways.
Service
Demonstrating a commitment to selflessly serving others, following the example set by Jesus. Actively seeking opportunities to meet the needs of the community, through acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion.
Everyone Flourishing
We are committed to the flourishing of every individual in our community. This value drives us to seek the peace and welfare of our city by finding practical solutions to our city’s greatest needs. We believe that as each member thrives, the entire community grows stronger.
Statement of Faith
The one true God, existing as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, created everything.
The Bible is divinely inspired and authoritative.
All people, created in God’s image, are separated by sin.
Jesus, fully human and divine, died for our sins, rose, and is Savior and Lord.
Through faith in Jesus, we are justified by God’s grace.
God calls us to unify to seek the peace and prosperity of our city.