An idea has formed and a vision taken shape on the part of a few like-minded friends.

The vision calls for the creation of an organic, informal form of Christian community centered around a DIY liturgy in a home-based setting.

The details are still in flux; nothing has been firmly decided.

We hope to start this undertaking by the start of Advent 2025 (November 29, 2025).

Keep reading. If this sounds appealing or simply interesting, reach out and let’s talk.

Here’s a loose sketch of what we have in mind:

A bi-weekly gathering for ritual, discussion, and mutual support. We’d likely meet on Saturday evening or Sunday afternoon so as not to interfere with other church commitments.

We’re unaffiliated with any church or denomination.

We seek to be informal, open-minded, tolerant, and kid-friendly.

Here’s what it might look like:

Guests arrive 15 to 30 minutes early for introductions, catching up, and socializing.

The Gathering begins in a living or family room.

A brief silence is observed to clear minds and set the tone.

A formal welcome and blessing follow, with a simple candle-lighting ritual to greet the Sabbath and open the session.

If musicians are present, songs may ensue; poetry could also be shared.

The Kyrie prayer for mercy and reconciliation comes next.

Then, a scripture passage is read, followed by a responsive Psalm.

Silence is engaged for reflection.

The Gospel is then proclaimed, with a brief silence afterward.

A facilitator shares a short reflection on the Gospel, inviting group comments.

Intercessory prayers follow this, concluding with the exchange of peace.

Then, the facilitator leads a brief Eucharistic celebration and Communion.

A final prayer, blessing, and optional closing music end the liturgy.

A written guide to the session is provided. Participants are welcome to participate in all or some of the ritual.

Following the session would be a potluck meal and time for socializing.

Let’s begin by explaining what we are NOT proposing or intending:

• We are not forming a new church or denomination

• This is not a bible study with ritual add-ons

• Participation could easily coincide with other religious communities and church commitments (No one is being asked to give up their church or denominational identity)

• We will not establish creedal or theological barriers or requirements - participants are welcome to interpret our ritual as they see fit

Here’s what we are aiming for:

• A supplemental, genuine Christian community

• A source of mutual support and meaningful connection

• A source of blessing that will have ripple effects, touching others

We see a need for the above and are earnestly discerning ways to meet those needs.

Anyone is welcome to join us in this experiment, but we wanted to convey something of its flavor before you jump in.

A significant source of our inspiration is the Iona Community in Scotland.

This is a dispersed, ecumenical, Christian collective with ancient roots and influences, but with progressive flair.

Participation in the Iona Community requires passing no theological litmus test. Participation is self-selecting.

We recommend studying their website to gain a better understanding of our project.

Some notes on style should also be added.

We are not Evangelical or nondenominational in style, background, or thinking. We’re not about bible studies, praise bands, 45-minute teachings, or mega churches.

We actually think the above is part of the problem, not the solution.

Our style is contemplative, simple, but liturgical, and expressive of a deep theological wrestling.

We’re interested in being meaningful, not relevant in a trendy sense.

We believe in right living, not altar calls, kindness, not theological prowness, and humility, not spiritual smugness.

We’d be happy baking almost any kind of wedding cake.

We don’t tolerate brow-beating, sermonizing, spiritual manipulation, or erecting boundaries of orthodoxy to be policed or enforced. We fully support defunding the theology and moral police.

Enough said; hopefully, you get the general tenor and flavor of the initiative.

If what you’ve read sounds intriguing, reach out.

We’re hoping to launch this by the start of Advent (November 29, 2025).

Get in touch with Gregory and talk further.