1. What were some things about our story that were meaningful to you, and why?
2. What were some points of tension where maybe you disagreed with something?
3. What do you think new monasticism has to say to today's church?
4. What walls stand in opposition to the Kingdom coming in your community of faith? What walls do you see God breaking down already?
5. Share your stories!
Hey guys,
ReplyDeleteI do have some ideas/questions rattling around in my spirt after yesterday, but for now I simply want to say "Thank you" for opening your home to me and being such gracious hosts. As our stories have intersected, mine has been changed for the good. You will have a new spot on the permanent prayer list.
Pace e bene,
Chris
Praise the Lord, Chris. It was our privilege to share a little bit of life with you!
ReplyDeleteHey guys,
ReplyDeleteI was not privileged to be in your classes at Summit but I have a friend who was and was blown away by what you are intentionally doing for the kingdom.
I am interested in the possibility of a couple of you guys presenting what you guys are doing to our youth at an upcoming retreat. Is there a way we could email and begin some correspondence on the possibility?
Thanks a lot,
jacob@decaturchurchofchrist.com
I'm curious what elements of your community you consider most telling of new monasticism. I ask because the idea is so fluid and hard to pin down at times.
ReplyDeleteHey Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteYou're right, the new monastic movement is very fluid and hard to pin down sometimes. I think this is largely because God's spirit has moved different people to different expressions depending on their context and calling. "Schools for Conversion: 12 Marks of a New Monasticism" is an excellent book for getting a better understanding of some of the common traits of new monastic communities. You may have already read it; but if not, you should definitely check it out. The "marks" do not fully define any single community, but they mark most of the communities that have emerged.
If I had to pick a few of the marks that are most uniquely new monastic (though not entirely so), I would choose the following: relocation, sharing of economic resources, geographical proximity to community members, nurturing common life among members of an intentional community, and commitment to a disciplined contemplative life. Of course the other marks are also important, but they are either not as widely shared or not as unique to new monastic communities (i.e. racial reconciliation, hospitality, contemplative practices).
In our community specifically: we relocated; we try to foster a common rhythm of life among community members; we share our economic resources with community members and the poor; we practice hospitality (this one is super important to us!); we lament racial divisions and seek reconciliation; we are submitted to the Church; we have a garden, shop locally whenever possible, and try to be environmentally friendly; and we are asking the Lord to continue calling us to new things as he brings his kingdom in our midst.