Culture can be defined as the shared beliefs, behaviors, and the social environment connected with a particular aspect of society. Culture consists of tangibles (what you feel) and even the intangibles (what you can’t feel). In other words, even if you cannot pinpoint it, it’s all around us. In his book, Culture Catalyst, Dr. Sam Chand states, “Culture - not vision or strategy - is the most powerful factor in any organization. It determines the receptivity of staff and volunteers to new ideas, unleashes or dampens creativity, builds or erodes enthusiasm, and creates a sense of pride or deep discouragement about working or being involved there. Ultimately, the culture of an organization… shapes individual morale, teamwork, effectiveness, and outcomes.” There are inspiring cultures and there are even toxic cultures, and it is most likely, that you have experienced both. We are not striving for a discouraging, defeated, faithless, “inside-the-box”, unhealthy culture. At Mercy, our mission is to create a Christ-like culture. This is a culture of excellence. This is a culture that is welcoming, exciting, and unconventional. It’s a culture that imitates Christ. One that reaches the lost, increases faith, creates mature disciples, encourages generosity, and inspires servanthood. It is a culture that advances the Kingdom of God.