WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES THIS LENT?
Our own Father Bill McConville, OFM, is creating fresh, original resources specially designed for our community of faith.
WHAT IS A “SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY”?
A Small Christian community is a way of experiencing parish life in a personal, supportive environment. In a Small Christian Community (SCC), groups of parishioners come together to share and connect life and faith. These groups are caring communities, in which the members listen to each other, build trust and give mutual support; learn to look at their lives through spiritual reflection and sharing and prayer.
WHAT DO YOU DO AT A SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY GATHERING?
Gatherings begin with an opening prayer followed by the Sunday readings and input from the materials prepared by Fr. Bill. Each person reflects privately on how the readings and Fr. Bill’s reflections touched their life. After private reflection, members share their thoughts with each other to the extent they feel comfortable doing so. The meeting closes with a prayer.
WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE IN A SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY?
Anyone interested in growing in their faith, returning Catholics who want to reconnect with the Church, and those desiring to listen to God’s voice in their daily lives.
HOW OFTEN WILL EACH SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY MEET?
Each group will meet for one and a half to two hours once a week for six weeks—during Lent. All participants are asked to make a commitment for the six weeks.
HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE IN EACH SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY?
There will be eight to twelve adults.
MAY I SIGN UP WITH SOMEONE I KNOW?
Yes. You may join with your spouse, friend, other family member and you can form your own group or join an existing group.
WHERE WILL THE SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES MEET?
Small Christian Communities are encouraged to meet in homes. If possible, individuals should take turns hosting. But it is also possible to meet at the parish.
IS THERE A COST INVOLVED IN BEING IN A SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY?
No. The only costs are refreshments at the hosting home.
WHY SHOULD I JOIN A SMALL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY?
In general, a Small Christian Community provides:
…a sense of belonging and caring
…a way to deepen a prayerful attitude toward life
…a way to slow down and reflect on God
…a way to connect life and faith
…a way to value and use your gifts
…a means to question our everyday culture and find support in being Christian and do outreach/service as an extension of blessings received.
