Every week we attend the Mass and celebrate the Eucharist together, but with whom exactly are we sharing the Mass? How can we connect with our neighbors seated three pews in front of us? There is a desire among christians to develop meaningful relationships with each other. Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Sister Angela, Deacon Frank Laws and his wife, Duffy, desired to meet that need, under the support of Father Larry Kolson. A core small church community was established by pastoral facilitators being trained to take on one of these groups. Little did they realize the growth of relationships that would occur. We live in a very independent society, but the hunger for relationships in faith still exists. Small Church Communities have been re-established to satisfy that desire for spiritual growth with other members of the body of Christ. In the Early Church, it was about fellowship, helping each other out, and discipleship. St. Stephen wishes to follow that apostolic tradition of faith community, open to all within and outside of St. Stephen Parish. It's a place to build a family, faith share, encourage each other in our faith walk, and use the spiritual gifts God has blessed us with. Feel connected to the larger community by joining a small church community. Don't let fear keep you from experiencing the freedom and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. This is an experience that will leave you changed for life.