I’ve been thinking about the disintegration of broad denominational structures, an inevitable consequence of the end of Christendom. While on the one hand we’re seeing the dying struggles of a conformist approach to religious community, we are in danger of becoming inward looking, self serving and parochial. Parker Palmer, provides us with some really useful insights on the development of healthy and outward focused community.

1. Strangers meet on common ground.
2. Fear of the stranger is faced and dealt with.
3. Scarce resources are shared and abundance is generated.
4. Conflict occurs and is resolved.
5. Life is given a color, texture, drama, a festive air.
6. People are drawn out of themselves.
7. Mutual responsibility becomes evident and mutual aid possible.
8. Opinions become audible and accountable.
9. Vision is projected and projects are attempted.
10. People are empowered and protected against (abuse of) power.

Palmer introduced these 10 characteristics in hi 1980 paper, “Going Public”, and again in “The Company of Strangers”, 1983. Loren Mead mentions them in his 1994 book, Transforming Congregations for the Future. But I think these still stand in 2010. I’m using these as inspiration for “Mission Stories”, a DVD learning resource coming out in May.

Parker J. Palmer is founder and senior partner of the Center for Courage & Renewal. A writer, speaker and activist, he serves as senior advisor to the Fetzer Institute and previously served as senior associate of the American Association of Higher Education. His seven books include A Hidden Wholeness, Let Your Life Speak, The Courage to Teach, The Active Life, To Know as We Are Known, The Company of Strangers and The Promise of Paradox. He lives in Madison, Wisconsin, and is working on a new book about democracy, citizenship and the inner life.