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    I stated in a recent blog that I've figured out why creating a missional order would be very helpful and what it could accomplish for those involved. Of course I've wanted to be part of a commune, intentional community, or missional order (that's the cool new word) for some time. But, I suppose much of that desire was idealistic and very unlikely to ever happen. However, I've discovered some ideas which I think may work.  
    In Scotland Jessi and I went to the Island of Iona, where a new Christian community has grown up in the place of the ancient Celtic community founded by St. Columba. On the tiny and out of the way Island of Iona unemployed men and young ministers in training "were brought together to rebuild the monastic quarters of the Abbey and in doing so discovered a common life together". Men and women are "hallowed" into the community after a two-year membership program. As members they commit to follow a common rule of daily prayer and reading the bible, accounting for use of resources including time and money, meeting together (they do not all live in the same place) and action for justice and peace. This could function as a basic model for forming a missional community. 
    I think it would be good for like-minded individuals, who hope to live missional lifestyles - some may already be part of the same missions organization - to make a formal commitment to one another. As I see it here are some of the benefits of forming a missional order: encouragement and accountability, deep spiritual friendship, sharing of ideas and resources, the pooling of resources, shared mission/social programs, mentorship of young members, care for old members, vocational validation and sanction (possibly ordination, this without having to join a particular denomination), team leadership, the consistency of commitment, being able to count on one another in the future. 
    For me, right now, the biggest issues are mentorship, ministry validation and encouragement. I also believe that a missional order would enable those who are gifted as apostles, prophets, and evangelists to have a greater impact. These are people whose gifts may enable them to influence multiple communities. In a traditional ministry setting they would most likely be expected to become pastors, or college professors. That may not really be what's best for them.
    I would suggest that the "two year membership program" be similar to what a monk goes through. They take a vow which allows them to take part in the community, and they are expected to fulfill all the duties of a community member. But, they can leave at any time. However, there comes a day, when they're ready, they take their final vows. Then they become permanent members of the community. 
    I seek a group of people who wish to make a commitment to a core set of relational and missional practices for the purpose of loving God and our neighbors better. I would not take that commitment lightly. I seek this because I believe a community can be stronger than an individual. I seek a community that will make our life better. I would hope to live in proximity to my fellow members one day, perhaps sharing space, or taking part in a business venture that could support our mission, such as monks do. Yet, no matter where God takes us, even if we never live in the same town, let alone the same house, as our fellow members, I believe a community sharing core commitments would be very beneficial to those involved.  

The quotes in this post are taken from the Iona community's literature.