Small Christian Communities

From the earliest moments of Christianity, small communities have been a means and manner by which people have been called to deepen and grow in their relationship with God. “The small Christian community is a face-to-face gathering of six to twelve people who invest time with one another for the common purpose of applying gospel values to every aspect of their lives.” [1] The small Christian community is designed to help people reflect on the mysteries of Jesus’ life. As people believe, reflect, share, and apply gospel values to their own lives, they come to a richer appreciation of the power of the cross and resurrection and the meaning of Jesus’ ongoing mission in the world. [2]

The materials in the Small Christian Communities area will be of use to parish leaders, staff, and Parish Core Communities for the ongoing growth and enhancement of the small Christian communities. These small Christian community materials will assist small communities in fulfilling the mission of Jesus. They also offer members concrete suggestions for developing the crucial ministry role of small community leaders, especially an understanding of leadership skills and group dynamics.