For centuries, Christian communities have come up with ways, rhythms, practices that encompass how they live and worship and be together. Traditionally, this is called a "rule of life."
The first example of a Christian rule of life is attributed to the Desert Fathers, a monastic community in Egypt in the third century AD. The Desert Fathers sought to apply the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles in a systematic way, including practical instructions for virtue and remedies for vices.
A rule of life is a set of guidelines and commitments that help direct a community and individuals to follow Jesus closer.
At Open Church, we desire to follow Jesus closely, as individuals and as a community, in alignment with our values and our mission. We have created our Shared Way of Life to formally create guidelines and commitments for ourselves, our microchurches, and our network.
Our shared way of life is a collection of practices, rhythms, and postures that shape our lives in a particular way that will nurture and support us as we seek to be faithful to the unique things that God is calling us to. This is not just more stuff to do or expectations that place a heavy burden on us. It will take some time to play around and experiment in order to find the specific ways that are most helpful to engage this way of life… ways which feel life-giving, restful, and nourishing to our souls.
We believe that as we grow more in our Shared Way of Life, we will be able to experience and offer God's inclusive love more fully.
You can read more about the specific postures, rhythms, and practices here.
Each month, we will highlight a core practice or rhythm from our Shared Way of Life, bringing it to our attention in our monthly email, creating opportunities to experience the practice or rhythm, and inviting your and your community to contribute to how we live out our Way of Life. Reach out to Sister Heather for more, sisterheather@openchurchcolumbus.org!
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