The Diocese of Portland commits itself to encourage and support Small Christian Communities within parishes, Catholic institutions and other gatherings as opportunities for all people to participate in the church's life and ministry in the context of community. The following elements are seen as essential characteristics of a small Christian community:

• obedience to the Word of God
• a commitment to valuing life experience in relationship to the Word of God
• common prayer
• a commitment of time to one another for building personal relationships
• meaningful participation in the life of the local parish
• apostolic mission to the wider society
• an adherence to the Catholic faith
• a relationship of communion with the church

Fr. Clem Thibodeau authors a resource mailed out to the leadership person designated by the parish called, "Echoing God's Word". Based on the Sunday scriptures, it offers reflections, doctrine and questions for discussion as well as a weekly prayer.

For more information or to begin a small Christian community in your parish contact William Schulz at 773-6471.