Faith in Action:
Strategic Plan 2026-2031

In many churches and non-profits, strategic direction flows top-down from the clergy, staff, and board. But at St. Thomas’ we take a different, more grassroots approach. Every parish member, including children and youth, is invited to listen for God’s dream for our community. The result is a prayerful vision composed of more than 100 initiatives, many of which, including a Christmas Lights festival, Seniors transportation program, and youth ministries, are already coming to life.   

Our five-year plan.

Our strategic plan is rooted in enduring values and mission (see Core Values and Mission in the plan diagram), while staying open and flexible to the movement of the Holy Spirit in the present (see Vision, Goals, and Strategies in the diagram). Initiatives are what flow from these commitments and give the plan “teeth.” The people of St. Thomas’ aren’t content to cast a vision through a document. We seek to put our faith in action and implement ministries imagined in the plan.

Strategic plan overview for St. Thomas’ Church Whitemarsh.
A small group of people working together in a workshop at St. Thomas’ Church Whitemarsh.
Small groups of people working together at long tables in a large room at a workshop at St. Thomas’ Church Whitemarsh.
Three easel pads with handwritten notes and ratings displayed during a group workshop at St. Thomas’ Church Whitemarsh.

“I was really excited to be a part of the planning for our church’s future. I feel like my voice was heard.”

—Joanne G., a new member of St. Thomas’

Quick links

Stained glass window depicting robed figures in a biblical scene at St. Thomas’ Church Whitemarsh.

Vestry

Young woman in her 30s looking backwards in animated conversation at St. Thomas’ Church Whitemarsh.

New Here?

Mural of a young Jesus with a gold halo teaching leaders in the synagogue.

Publications