1. People expect something different at Cazenovia Village Baptist Church.

You can expect informality, intimacy, closeness, personal recognition and involvement.   These are relational  attributes found in our people, worship and ministry.   People desiring formality and low involvement will most likely look to a much larger church.

2.  Almost everyone knows everyone.

People know, care and share each other's concerns, illness, travel and pleasure.  They will notice and miss you when absent In worship.   Loneliness is rarely a problem.   Relationships are richer and deeper in our Church Family. Important confidences are kept and respected.

3. There Is a family feeling.

Where a family atmosphere prevails, an individual has identity, security, and a caring environment.   There is a strong sense of "my" church, and that help is available for the asking.  People care deeply what happens to others.       

4.  Everyone is important and needed.

There are few spectators in our church.  We believe that the Holy Spirit has gifted every member.  Gifts are to be used for the common good and In service to Jesus.  You will be invited to participate, asked to lead and give as the Lord Jesus guides you in personal stewardship.

5.  Organization Is simple, rather than complex - flexible, rather than rigid.

Only a few committees and boards are needed, and everyone has a chance to get in on decision making. The Biblical admonition of "speaking the truth in love" means for us communication that is direct and immediate.  We believe in and practice our  "congregational polity".

6.  We are known by a collective personality in Cazenovia not by our program.

Churches earn certain reputations in a community: " a family church", "a mission church", "a praying church." We don't major in pre-planned programs as much as we act out the Gospel in the everyday life of our people.

7.  We share a common history and are committed to a common future.

Our ministry is Biblically focused and intentional as expressed in goals and objectives recommended to and approved annually by the members of CVBC congregation.   It takes time, participation and stewardship to become part of its history and a molder of its future.

8.  Our theology is Biblical, conservative, evangelical, personal, relational and mission oriented.

Our theology is never based on idle and abstract speculation.  That does not mean that we are "anti-intellectual" but rather emphasizes that our faith is experiential, real and practical.  It is learned in personal and relational ways as we walk day by day with our living Lord Jesus Christ and with other believers.

9.  Mission is understood in personal terms.

At home, people in our church accept Jesus' command, "love thy neighbor" but they want their neighbor personalized.   The need must be present and graphic - a well to be dug, a hungry child to be fed, a person to witness to about their faith, a sick member to pray for, a room to be painted - and our people will give for real persons in real need.   We carry out Christ's mission and witness internationally, nationally, regionally and locally through committed affiliation with our sister American Baptist Churches and ecumenically as well.   

10.   Our people want their pastor to be personal, real, practical, and loving.

  These spiritual qualities rank above being a scholar, a manager, or an expert.  Our pastor is part of the family, not above it.  He works along with elected leaders, church members, children or adults.   He is approachable, available, and reliable.  He cares deeply and intensely about Christ's Mission, our people, and their needs.

If you have questions or comments about this site, please e-mail:

Webmaster: 

E-mail:  webmaster@cazvbc.org

Revised: April 21, 2006