Michael, what I meant but didn’t communicate well was that we’ve been involved in a weekly, intentional fellowship group focused on study, worship and prayer. It is led however by a group of men and we don’t have the sacramental focus you mentioned as our beliefs aren’t so oriented.

I am so far disturbed by the lack of covenental existance demonstrated; Laurie and I have that level of commitment as does another couple. Others are on what we like to call the ‘singles plan’ (after our singles ministry days); IOW: “I’ll be there if nothing better comes along”. But frankly this aspect is not any worse than I’ve experienced in formal church settings that I’ve attended. My work community is much more committed, though we do get paid for showing up so that may be a factor.

I guess that all of this is to say that we are exploring and learning and listening.