What is Spiritual Community?

We believe that God has not changed His mind from when he first said, “It’s not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). We were never created to function as isolated individuals. God’s plan all along was to have us be a part of a group, a member of a circle or a participant on a winning team.

When we yield to His desire and become a functioning part of a group of people, we find a new strength and a true purpose for our lives. Growing in love and appreciation for each other, we become bound together in close relationships. Add the presence of God and the outcome is a spiritually empowered community. It’s like heaven on earth, because that’s what it is.

Where Do We Experience this Spiritual Community?

It may seem obvious, but it’s impossible to enjoy this type of community with large crowds of people. We believe that it can only be found in a small group. That’s where life can be shared in authentic ways. The larger the number, the less authentic and the less rewarding the experience will be.

But in the relaxed atmosphere where friends meet together in their homes, a group can learn a lot from each other. They come to really know each other and they support or encourage each other when needed.

So, in pursuit of spiritual community, we meet together in one another’s homes. It’s here that we bring what God has given us or what He’s done for us or how He’s tested us and we share it with each other. As the relationships grow and the love increases, we grow more effective in changing each other to what God’s purpose is for us.

How Do Community Groups Work?

We meet each week in a Community Group that is around 10 to 14 people. These communities are made up of a mixed collection of people. Each person accepts a responsibility to give what they can to add to the other member’s lives. They also listen intently to the others so they will grow in their own life. Together, they create a group from the unique gifts and resources that they bring. This group gives life and strength and purpose to everyone. It’s like heaven and earth because it is.

At The Edge, we have a number of Community Groups that meet on different nights of the week and in different locations all over the west suburbs. If you're looking to get involved in a community group, contact Laura Birkey at