Simple Church

Simple church is a re-definition of church as a Christ-centered community established primarily on relationship both to God and to the other members of the group. The term "simple" is used to denote the movement of many traditional church characteristics to the category of non-essential, or even unhelpful, in this model of church. A simple church may meet anywhere, with or without religiously trained persons or "clergy", may not have any formal liturgy, and little if any programmatic or institutional structures. To facilitate relationship, discipleship (spiritual formation), multiplication, mobility, and member ownership, a simple church is usually a small group of no more than 20-25 persons. Church "programs" are virtually nonexistent and small group participation is essential. Member movement from worship to small group to mission work is a primary focus.

The term simple church is often used interchangeably with other terms like organic church, essential church, primitive church, bodylife, relational church, and micro-church. Some groups use other names for their groups, although they would consider themselves part of or related to the simple church phenomenon. Perhaps the most common synonym is house church, which has much more popular usage and predates the term simple church significantly.

The name simple church is favored over house church by some because the house church movement has often been associated with embittered reactions against more traditional forms of church. Whether earned or not, with some people the house church movement has a reputation for being insular and exclusive, even cultish -- something that many who are concerned about missional living want to avoid. Also, simple churches can meet anywhere, not just in houses, leading some to see the term "house church" as too limiting.

If you want to experience simple church first hand then come out and join us if you are in Central Pennsylvania.  Call 717-238-5621 for directions and information about our gatherings.  Don't forget to tune in to our podcasts to get in on the conversations.