If I were to ask you what community means to you, my guess is that I would receive a myriad of different answers. Community means different things to all of us, because its theorisation can be affirmed or negated through our lived experience. The word can be defined spatially, contextualised in terms of values and norms (with which we may or may not agree), the particularities of allegiances and interests, or by the fact that we subscribe to a particular service or shared identity. For me, community signifies an effort, an intentionality that moves us beyond ourselves to look at how we connect to others, how we edify and uphold, and how we allow ourselves to be supported and enriched.

The Christian faith, arguably, adds to the debate on community because it calls us towards inclusivity and welcome. We are urged to speak beyond barriers that can separate us from one other. I love the fact that Jesus constantly moved between communities and eventually lays down the ultimate challenge to build a new kingdom community here on earth; this new community gives a legitimate place of belonging to all of God’s children.

This Friday 11 May, we are hosting our first community activism fair: ‘Community Calling’. We are being ambitious in bringing together representatives of local organisations with the aim of connecting them with city residents and students. We believe that this gathering will be of mutual benefit, highlighting local activism and potential new supporters for these worthwhile causes. As my mother often says in her typical ‘I am wiser than you voice’, to which I always acquiesce, “one tree does not make a forest”. We are in a position to give, to help and to reach beyond the beautiful building of St Mary’s to make new and worthwhile connections. So whatever community means to you, come and see, and be inspired to get involved.