This foundational book is in the lineage of, and builds on, Living Cells, Signs of Hope, and Small Christian Communities: A Pastoral Companion. It benefits, however, from seven years of added experience in many parts of the world. One third to half of the writing is new, the spirituality more developed, and the theological, spiritual, and practical elements better integrated. There are also many additions and significant nuances. In effect, we are talking of a new work. Without wishing to be a blueprint, it shares ideas on the vision and practicalities of small Christian communities.

Author Biography

James O'Halloran is a Salesian priest who has worked with small Christian communities for over thirty years as member, coordinator, and promoter. This mission he has carried out worldwide - with a predilection for Africa and Latin America - from the halls of academia to parishes and far-flung mission stations. Among other places he lectures, or has lectured, at All Hallows, Church of Ireland Theological College, The Priory Institute, Kimmage Manor, Maynooth, and Milltown Park, Ireland; Selley Oak (Birmingham University) and Ushaw College, England; Kenema, Gaba, Karen College, Tangaza, Jomo Kenyatta College, Thika Pastoral Centre, Tzaneen Pastoral Centre, Africa; La Salle University, Philadelphia, USA; Notre Dame University Australia, and La Universidad Catolica, Quito, Ecuador.