Intentional communities
by Sarah Thompson, Elkhart, Ind./Strasbourg, France
The article on young adults and intentional communities was encouraging ("Mennonite Young Adults Show Renewed Interest in Intentional Communities," March 3). Shane Claiborne and the New Monastic movement (a cross-class solidarity movement that grows primarily out of young adults trying to react creatively to their Evangelical traditions) is taking an interest in what an Anabaptist orientation for intentional communities looks and feels like. Shane recently visited Jubilee MVS House and Fellowship of Hope in Elkhart, Ind., to dialogue.
I wanted to add a few thoughts from my experience in intentional community. I found it a healthy alternative to a nuclear family, a place to explore questions, to give and receive emotional support and to experiment in equalizing income. If there is a service or solidarity component as a part of the intentional living situation, it is a direct way to deepen connections with the surrounding community. The Jubilee MVS House has also gained a lot from listening to the experience of Fellowship of Hope members. If you're in Elkhart on any given Wednesday, you are invited for a community meal at 6 p.m. to continue the conversation.
Associated Issue: A fair balance - March 3, 2009
Associated Article: Mennonite young adults show renewed interest in intentional communities
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