We currently have three communities in the UK and two in Germany. Each is different in layout and activity, but we work together and support each other. In the UK, most members live in two rural communities of 200 – 300 people each. The Darvell Community is located near Hastings in East Sussex, and the Beech Grove Community is near Canterbury in Kent. Much like small villages, these communities have family dwellings clustered around a school and a central dining and meeting hall. Our newest location, the Woodgate Community in the diverse urban setting of East London, is home to 25 members.

The two communities in Germany are also smaller with approximately 25 residents each. The Sannerz Community (near Frankfurt) is the historical site of our first community – see History. The Holzland Community was founded in 2004 and is located in former East Germany, near Jena.

There is lots to do at each community and the day starts early. As the school opens for teachers and children, other community members and visitors set about the day’s work to keep each community functioning.

We believe that working together diligently and joyfully – whether in our communal laundry, kitchen or income generating business – is an expression of our commitment to serving one another. Our goal is for every individual to find a purpose in his or her work, regardless of age, education or ability. When performed with love, the most menial task can be fulfilling. To us, mopping floors is no less important than the practice of medicine. Both have equal value and meaning when done in service to others.

We earn our living together by manufacturing and selling a high-quality line of sturdy classroom furniture and wooden toys known as Community Playthings. This equipment is popular in nurseries, children’s centres and primary schools throughout the UK and Europe. This business is carried out through a trading subsidiary company with wood shops at the Darvell and Beech Grove communities. The smaller communities in London and Germany have developed other small businesses. Most importantly, these activities provide a daily opportunity for the faith of our members to be expressed in harmonious productive labour. No one receives a wage because, in this context, energetic work is an essential part of the religious vocation and calling of community members.

The evening meal is often eaten in our central dining hall and is usually followed by a meeting for singing, worship or discussion of world events or other issues.

A visit to any of our communities is the best way to truly understand this way of life. Contact us any time to make arrangements.