Course Description


Although many people bemoan the fact that society is so fragmented, a small but growing number [of committed Christians] … from all walks of life are responding to Christ’s call to embody an integrated spirituality that encompasses the whole of life and is lived out with others.’ (Charles E. Moore) This course will explore the reasons why Christians form such intentional communities and reflect on their implications for existing communities/churches. Besides examining the different types of contemporary intentional Christian communities (or new monasticism) and comparing them with the older monastic movements, participants will also explore the key elements and tensions in the formation of such intentional Christian communities.
Register

  • Location

    Online via Zoom

  • Dates

    (Wednesdays)
    Sep: 4 (8pm-10pm)
    (7.15pm-10pm for all remaining sessions)
    Sep: 18
    Oct: 2, 16
    Nov: 13
    Closing Date for Registration:
    Sept 1, 2024

  • Time

    7:15–10.00PM
    8:00-10.00PM (for 1st session only)

Instructor

Melanie has diverse experience in supporting ministries, start-ups, and training organizations in operations, finance, administration, teaching, worship, and communications. She completed her Master of Theology with AGST Alliance and is trained under the Contemplative Spiritual Directors Program. Her work involves forming Christians to discern and partner with God in what He is doing in the world by bringing redemptive imagination to all of life, and has a special interest in reimagining church, community and missions. She lives with the question of what it means to live faithfully and embody the gospel in intentional communities.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    General

    • General Formatting for all Assignments

    • Orientation Course & Library Access

    • Course Syllabus
  • 2

    Session 1

    • Introduction to the Course
  • 3

    Session 2

    • Why Form Intentional Christian Communities?

  • 4

    Session 3

    • A Biblical and Historical Exploration of Intentional Christian Communities
  • 5

    Session 4

    • A Sketch of Contemporary Intentional Christian Communities

  • 6

    Session 5

    • Exploring Contemporary Intentional Christian Communities / Class Presentation
  • 7

    Course Evaluation

    • Course Evaluation
  • 8

    Assignments

    • Reflection Paper (500-800 words)