The foundation of our life is faith in Jesus Christ. His Sermon on the Mount is particularly important to us, and the account in Acts of His earliest followers serves as an example of a living community of believers. We believe this same spirit was rekindled in the Anabaptist church communities established in the Reformation time and in many other times and places throughout history.
We acknowledge God's working in all who strive for justice and peace, no matter their religion or creed. Yet we take Jesus Christ's commands seriously. His command, "Love your neighbour as yourself" and his teachings concerning non-violence, faithfulness in marriage and compassion for all people are central to our communal life as well as to the life of each individual member.
In each community, the members are united in faith and in complete community of goods. Our daily work is a testimony to peace and to purity and honesty in our relationships. We want to proclaim to a divided world that harmony of work, worship, family life and education is made possible through Jesus Christ.
We believe that communal life is not only an expression of personal Christianity, but also benefits the wider public through demonstrating in everyday life that the faith and teachings of Jesus Christ and his Apostles can become a practical reality in today’s world.
Throughout our history we have maintained the foundation of faith, but community life may take a slightly different form at each location. We come from many cultures, countries and walks of life. Every member gives their talents, time and efforts wherever they are needed to the best of their ability, and is cared for according to their need, without regard to the practical contribution they make. The needs of individual members are met from our common purse and we try to keep a simple standard of living. Although most family apartments have cooking facilities, some meals are eaten together as a community, and meetings for fellowship, singing, prayer or decision-making are held several evenings a week.
We are committed to living out Jesus Christ’s way every day and in all aspects of life. This means that we uphold purity before marriage and faithfulness in marriage as described in the Bible. We believe this is the true basis for a family. We recognize the importance of childhood and education, as well as the special care needed by our oldest members.
We welcome visitors to all our communities, but Membership requires a voluntary lifetime commitment; it is a choice that can only be made as an adult. Adult baptism is the sign by which this commitment is sealed. Those who grow up in the community are encouraged to spend time elsewhere so they can make a mature, independent choice.
Church Communities UK is a limited company, and a registered charity. Our trading subsidiary Community Products (UK) Ltd, produces Community Playthings: high quality wooden furniture and toys for childcare settings.
There are church communities in the United States and Australia with whom we share the same spiritual roots, the same faith and vocation. We support one another where possible and strive for unity of faith but these communities are organised separately according to the laws of their countries. |