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Because we all have one Father, we are all brothers and sisters. Therefore, we are a family, a
community. God loves each of His children personally.
“What should be done then, my friends? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a
lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.”
I Corin. 14:26
A strong community has the following characteristics:
PURPOSE
There must be a basis for the life of the community which is enough to hold everyone together.
The basis must include Jesus Christ. It does not need to be based on programs or activities.
It is to be concerned with all of what is involved in being a Christian.
The top priority of the Community is personal spiritual renewal - the renewal of one’s commitment
to Christ. This is a primary concern, because it is only through spiritual renewal that a community
draws together and anything can happen.
ORGANIZATION
The organizational aspect of the community is organic – it is developed to meet needs the
community feels, not to supply services the community ought to want.
There must be enough organization for its members to be able to grow together in service. But
not too much organization that the organization becomes the focus and not personal, spiritual
renewal.
There is a common misconception that the only real personal relationships are the kind that are
formed individually or in small groups where people can “get to know each other well.” In real
communities there is a bond that comes from having something in common, belonging to the
same body, that has a single purpose. In this case it is personal, spiritual renewal.
COMMUNING
Every member of the community needs to be an active participant. This means that each member
is actively pursuing a personal relationship with Christ and is on a path of spiritual renewal. This is
different for each person, but it always leads to the same thing – total emptying of oneself and
unifying with God.
Members are strongly encouraged to be in regular contact with each other. This is a unique
challenge of a dispersed community. We do this through e-mail, teleconference calls, cell phones,
text messaging, regional and national meetings (Convocations). The interaction between the
people must be relationship-oriented, and not just task-oriented.
“Though they be divided in their dwelling, yet do they abide bound and inseparable in spirit and
faith and loving-kindness.” - Historia Monachorum
Our Community is a way to demonstrate our faith and to build a closer relationship with Christ.
Here’s our Community at work and play…
| Br. Daniel-Joseph facilitating a men's Bible Study, and admiring the Titan sunflowers in his garden. |
| Br. Michael-Gregory at his profession in December of 2007. From left to right in the upper picture are Ms. Cherry Remboldt (Seminarian), Mother Stephanie Parker, Br. Michael-Gregory, Fr. Andrew Green and Bishop Mathes. |
| Rev. Sr. Johanna brightening up people's lives with smiles and inspirations from the Word. |
| Br. Patrick Heath offering his Full Member vows on April 13, 2008 at Calvary Episcopal Church in Santa Cruz, CA. The ceremony was officiated by the Rt. Rev. Mary Gray-Reeves, Bishop of the Diocese of El Camino Real. CONGRATULATIONS, BROTHER! |