Insights and suggestions on the visionand practicalities of small Christian communities.

This work explores the results of a wide-scale sociological and theological study of the appeal of small Christian communities and their meaning for the future of the church.

Building on the volume, Living Cells, this work offers a pastoral companion, affirming diversity and flexibility.

"In Gatbered and Sent, Bernard Lee and Michael Cowan propose a mode of doing theology within small Christian communities that is marked by conversation and active participation by all. It is a practical theology where people reflect on their whole lives, personal and social, in the light of Christian faith, make commitments to action in light of that reflection, and hold one another accountable for those commitments."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Over the past thirty years there has been a boom in small groups, both in society at large and within the church. From Bible studies to MOPS to Alcoholics Anonymous, it is estimated that four out of ten Americans belong to a small group that meets regularly for the care and support of its members. But are these groups creating true, biblical community, or do they settle for self-focus and personal gain? Julie Gorman has studied small groups for decades and presents her analysis, insights, and suggestions in Community That Is Christian, an essential resource for building community in church-based small groups. This comprehensive book serves both as a text for those who equip leaders or lead small groups and as an interactive manual for small-group members, helping them transform their relationships into Christ-centered community. The book begins with biblical support for coming together, contrasting it with our often individualistic mind-set that undermines community. Gorman then sets forth the goals of community and describes the process of transformation. She draws from extensive research to address the why and the how of small-group ministry, giving special attention to gender and cultural distinctions. Community That Is Christian provides readers with charts, discussion questions, and inventories to further help them establish community within their small groups.

Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation of John Paul II.