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.

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

"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

Examines the pastoral and theological implications of North American Small Christian Community programs.

This book has gone through various editions or versions. The "First Version" was given as a paper on "Small Christian Communities in the AMECEA Region: An Evaluation of their Growth and Impact" at the 13th Interdisciplinary Theological Session on the theme "The Faculty of Theology of CUEA Celebrates the Golden Jubilee of AMECEA" at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) in Nairobi, Kenya on 3 March, 2011. Many papers were presented at this conference covering the 50 years of AMECEA under three headings: Part I: "Deeper Evangelization. Part II: "Formation and Education." Part III: "Church Life, Organization and Structures." I specifically treated the topic of "Small Christian Communities" under Part III. Many pastoral leaders including the AMECEA bishops recommended the importance of a thorough critical evaluation and assessment of SCCs to learn from the past and to help plan for the future. Note this is Volume Two of a two volume book. Volume one of this book is also available on AMAZON.

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

Co-workers in the Vineyard of the Lord offers pastoral and theological reflections on the reality of lay ecclesial ministry, affirmation of those who serve in this way, and a synthesis of best thinking and practice.