MEMBERSHIP IN THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY OF THE SHRINE OF ST. JOSEPH

The Christian Community is an "intentional" community, which means people come here because they choose to do so, rather then because they live nearby. It is also lay -run, with members assuming responsibilities for many functions — including liturgy, education, community life, social justice and fund raising — necessary for the survival and well-being of the Community.

Membership in the Christian Community reflects its unique character. People chose to be members, are free to be members, and are welcomed as members, with individuals themselves determining their own membership in the group.

Thus, membership in the Christian Community results from a self-discernment process in which one reflects on the character and mission of the Christian Community which gives rise to various implications, including:

• Worshipping together, since participation in liturgy is at the heart of the Community's shared vision.
   

• Being open to others and building relationships with them, revealing who I am and learning about them with an attitude of mutual respect - thus allowing our faith journey to be a communal one.
   

• Accepting responsibility for the Community, having a sense of stewardship, and recognizing that "what happens" is the result of individual member decision, action and participation, and that the involvement of as many as possible is what enables the Community to function.

• Supporting in word and action the educational aims of the Community - to nurture children's faith lives and to provide opportunities for adult intellectual and spiritual growth.
   

• Involving myself in the direction setting of the Community, so that it continues to be vital and alive, and true to its foundation as an intentional community -- defining and serving its own needs.
   

• Making financial contributions to the support of the Community.
   

• Supporting the charitable and social justice efforts of the Community, moving words to action through hands-on involvement.

These represent the needs of the Community as a whole. Does membership necessitate my committing to all the areas identified above? That is a question that each member alone must answer. Through this would be ideal and reap the fullest benefit for the individual and the Community, this is not always possible for everyone at all times. Some may not have the gifts, interest or energy to participate fully, while others may be at a life stage where it is not feasible. But whatever the level of involvement, accepting the overall philosophy of the Community - as stated in the mission statement — is important to one's feeling a part of it.

Ultimately, the questions 1 reflect on in considering my membership status are:

•  Is the Community my "spiritual grounding place" where the communal journey occurs?
   

• Is the Community stronger because of my involvement?
   

•  Does the Community serve others because of me?

Welcome -- Please Come In