it is easier to have a conversation. An individual
who is alone can do many useful things, such as
praying, studying the Word, caring for plants or
animals, or fixing a car; but real dialog requires
being with others. Likewise, in a large group one
person or a few people can talk, but in a gathering
of more than 15 or 20 people, it is almost certain
that some (if not most) people will not have an
opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the
conversation.
Communication in large groups tends to be
one direction, with one person or a few people
having the spotlight while everyone else listens
and watches. In a small group it is easier for
everyone to have a turn, to hear and be heard,
see and be seen.
Every partnership in the entirety of heaven, in
all the world, and throughout the human form
is the result of two parties moving into a closer
relationship with each other until both parties
intend the same things. This leads to a similarity,
harmony, unanimity, and agreement in every
detail between the parties. . . . This is how the
minds of people who deeply love each other form
a partnership. It is an integral part of all love and
friendship. Love wants to love and it wants to be
loved. (True Christianity 99)
testimonial
Small groups allow us the
opportunity to share our authentic
self with others. There are times
when I really need to open up about
deep personal struggles, and small
groups provide the appropriate
space for that.
Small groups are a platform for
having authentic, meaningful
relationships with others. I’ve
found that as we open up to each
other, there is an organic trust that
builds, forming the foundation of a
healthy friendship.
Small groups foster personal
and sp iritual growth. Having the
support and encouragement of
others, who know your struggles
and pain, is deeply empowering.
– Chris Dunn
In small groups we can have two-way conversations, we can both know
and love others and be known and loved by them. In heaven everyone gets the
spotlight. They are all brought together by mutual love in such a way that “the
happy feelings of all are communicated to each one, and those of each one to
all. As a result in the basic structure of heaven it’s as if everyone is a kind of
center – a center of communications, and the resulting happy feelings.” (Secrets
of Heaven 2057) In New Church Journey small groups we encourage giving
everyone equal time, so that everyone gets a turn to be the center of attention
and the focus of the group’s love.
Our Neighbor Is the Good in a Person
In the New Church it is very clear that loving other people spiritually does not
mean loving them for their appearance, their personality, or for their approval;
rather we love them for the good that is in them. (See True Christianity 417419, New Jerusalem 86-90)
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