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CONNECT

COMPANIONS OF THE HEART

We have decided that we want to grow old asking ourselves the same three questions each day:

+++ How can I be true to Christ today?
+++ How can I be kind to people today?
+++ How can I play my part in taking the Gospel to the nations today?

Because we love God less than we want to, and distrust ourselves entirely, we are launching out on this journey with friends who are more than friends. Together we will find ways of exploring the meaning of these three simple vows year by year for the rest of our lives, going deeper in understanding, growing simpler in knowledge, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to us about each one in new ways at different times.

We would strongly advise you to do the same - to take the Vow in the context of a community which can provide encouragement and accountability as you journey together.

'Cymbrogi'

The ancient Celts had a term, cymbrogi, which means, “companions of the heart.” We have adopted this term to describe a group of friends who choose to support one another in taking the Mustard Seed Vow together. The group should be one in which a depth and genuineness of relationship exists appropriate to the commitment you are making with one another.

It is vital that you establish mechanisms for ongoing support, growth, grace, restoration (when members fail), and renewal. Each member may well find it helpful to find their own spiritual director willing to guide them through their commitment. Or you may agree to meet regularly to explore some aspect of the Rule and to honestly share your struggles, insights, and encouragements. Perhaps you could arrange to reconvene annually on the anniversary of your vow to renew your commitments. If you have made your vow privately, it is even more important to develop such moments and find mentors.

Some Frequently Asked Questions:

   HOW DO I JOIN THE ORDER OF THE MUSTARD SEED (OMS)?

It is not possible to “join” the Order, but you can establish an expression of it with your friends. This website offers a meeting place for such communities, but there is nothing to join! We aim to remain a loose-knit movement of mini-movements; an organic community of groups gathered around the story of Zinzendorf and the values of his Mustard Seed Order.

   DO I NEED TO TAKE THE VOW WITH OTHERS OR CAN IT BE A PRIVATE THING?

Ultimately, a commitment like this is made between the individual and God. However, people are not designed to live out their faith on their own. Encouragement and accountability are an important part of what it means to live the Mustard-Seed vow in practise. For this reason, we would encourage you to take the vow in community with others.

   IS THE OMS AN ALTERNATIVE TO LOCAL CHURCH?

No, in fact quite the reverse! Throughout history such groups, cells and orders have been agents of renewal to the established church. 

For more FAQs, click here

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