How to Write a Family Mission Statement

October 10, 2026

Businesses, schools, and churches often have mission statements. Why not families? A family mission statement is a short description of who your family is, what you value, and how you want to live. It gives everyone a shared vision, and a compass for hard decisions.

Why vision matters

Proverbs 29:18: "Where there is no vision, the people perish."

Habakkuk 2:2: "Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it."

Joshua 24:15: "But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

Joshua's declaration may be the most famous family mission statement in history.

5 simple steps

Step 1: Gather the family. Make it fun, with snacks, paper, and markers. Include kids at every age level.

Step 2: Brainstorm values. Ask:

What do we want our family to be known for?
What matters most to us?
How do we want people to feel in our home?
How do we want to treat each other?

Write down every word: kindness, faith, honesty, fun, generosity, courage, forgiveness, hospitality.

Step 3: Choose your top 3–5 values.

Step 4: Write a short statement. Keep it short enough for kids to remember.

Step 5: Choose a family verse to anchor it.

Example mission statements

"The [Last Name] family loves God, loves each other, and loves our neighbors. We tell the truth, forgive quickly, laugh often, and serve with joy." (Verse: Mark 12:30–31)

"In our home, we follow Jesus, we are kind, we work hard, and we always have room for one more." (Verse: Joshua 24:15)

"We are a family claimed by God. We live with courage, gratitude, and generosity." (Verse: Isaiah 43:1)

Put it where you'll see it

Display your mission statement and family verse in your home. A custom-looking wooden sign or canvas print with your family verse makes a beautiful daily reminder.