Community of St Michael and All Angels

Community of St Michael and All Angels (CSMAA) is a Christian religious community within the Anglican Communion, dedicated to living out the Gospel in daily life through prayer, worship, and service. Founded in the late 19th century, the community draws its inspiration from the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, focusing on the values of hospitality, care for the poor, and the spiritual formation of its members and those they serve.

History

The Community of St Michael and All Angels was established in response to the spiritual and social challenges of the time, aiming to embody the principles of Christian monasticism in a modern context. Its founders were influenced by the broader Anglican religious orders movement, which sought to revive monastic life within the Church of England and across the Anglican Communion. The exact date and location of the community's foundation vary, reflecting the diverse origins of similar groups, but it typically traces its roots back to the late 19th or early 20th century.

Beliefs and Practices

Members of the CSMAA commit to a rule of life that emphasizes prayer, meditation, and the reading of Scripture, alongside active engagement with the world through charitable works and community service. The community's spirituality is deeply rooted in the liturgical traditions of the Anglican Communion, with a particular focus on the Eucharist as the central act of Christian worship.

The Community of St Michael and All Angels is also committed to the principles of ecumenism and interfaith dialogue, seeking to build bridges between different Christian denominations and other religions. This reflects a broader Anglican emphasis on inclusivity and the reconciliation of diverse spiritual traditions within the body of Christ.

Membership

Membership in the CSMAA is open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds who feel called to its way of life. This includes both lay and ordained members, reflecting the community's belief in the priesthood of all believers. Members may live in community houses or lead a committed life in their own homes, supported by a network of fellow members and regular gatherings for worship and fellowship.

Impact and Contributions

The Community of St Michael and All Angels has made significant contributions to the life of the Anglican Communion and the wider church through its focus on social justice, education, and pastoral care. Its members have been involved in founding schools, hospitals, and social service projects, often in areas of high need. The community also plays a role in spiritual formation and retreat ministry, offering guidance and support to individuals seeking to deepen their faith.

Challenges and Future Directions

Like many religious communities, the CSMAA faces challenges in the contemporary world, including declining membership and the need to adapt its mission and practices to changing social contexts. However, the community continues to explore new ways of living out its charism, including the use of digital media for evangelization and the development of new forms of community life that respond to the needs of the 21st century.

See Also

• Anglican Communion
• Christian monasticism
• Religious order (Christian)
• Ecumenism

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