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Why Communal?
[Note: Plow Creek is made up of a communal part, Plow Creek Fellowship, and a non-communal part. See "Gentle Flow"]
Why Communal Living?
We had a discussion focusing on why we are excited about communal living here at Plow Creek and why we want to invite others to join us. Here is a summary of the basic points people raised.
1. Communal living provides a good way to serve each other in a variety of ways. It has been especially helpful in Donna Harnish's [disabled by stroke and Alzheimer's] care.
2. The communal lifestyle provides a statement against greed and materialism so prevalent in our culture.
3. It also allows for in depth connections and relationships -- as we are financially interdependent.
4. The financial interdependence challenges us to grow and continue to grow in trusting the Lord and each other.
5. Sharing finances is an adventure in faith, depending on God to meet our needs as His people.
6. Our life here provides for a deep sense of family and belonging to each other, and to this place.
7. Sharing finances has allowed us to reach out to a variety of people including the people of Valle Nuevo, and other guests.
8. It can give a sense of permanence.
9. Common decision making is a dance between individual and group needs that stretches us and helps us grow in caring for others beyond ourselves.
10. Children who grow up here also receive the gift of being a part of a People and a Place.
11. Our life here provides us all with real relationships between generations, as friends, “aunts and uncles”, and just folks who know each other well and accept each other.
12. Sharing finances provides for endless opportunity for growth :)
13. The sense of Call from the Lord is not really able to be defined, but there is a real goodness and joy from knowing you're living as He has called you to live.
14. Sharing finances can enhance outreach and mission.
15. Relationships tend to be deep and lasting, enduring even after people have left.