Circles. What do you think of the shape? Does your mind travel to the closed circle, which is what is most commonly shown? What about an open circle?
Closed, the circle limits those who can enter. It is as if one must ask permission to enter: Please, let me in. Does this make you feel like a beggar? Do you move on in search of a place that will admit you?
Open, the circle allows us to freely enter, find a place for ourselves, and explore the environs. What lies within? Where will an open circle carry us to?
I’m Gail, and I’ve experienced both the closed and open circle—and the open circle is the best!
Community Circle is such a place. We welcome you with open arms! Who are you? LGBTQIA+, disabled, a person of color, or cisgender, you will find a seat at our table and will be included in our open circle. Whether you are from one of the many nations of Western Europe or the U.K., or maybe an expatriate living in one of these countries, enter freely.
If you are struggling with faith issues, we want your voice to be heard. It is the struggle that brings us to places of new understanding and belief. Growth and discovery are a part of being a person of faith. We seek to support everyone and hold space for those who have been spiritually abused. This is church, and church should never exclude anyone.
We desire to create a place where all are able to flourish and contribute. If you are looking for a faith home, you may find it here as part of Community of Christ. We seek to be creators of justice and peace and look to Jesus, the peaceful one, as our model.
Returning to the circle that is open, I can say that inclusion is one of the greatest gifts we as humans can offer each other. The experience of being recognized for who we are as our authentic selves is priceless. Being able to grow, share, learn, and explore together serves to create a rich environment for worship for young and for old: a place at our table to contribute and create ministry that will bless others and, we hope, bless you.
This space will seek to explore many facets of faith as we all travel to new and wonderful places where we’re free to discover how God is working in our lives. Let’s begin a discussion about faith that is open and real. Where is God working in your life? How can we help you explore how she/he/they could work in your life?
Welcome to our open circle!