The vision of building missional communities flows from our calling to build spiritual movements everywhere. A spiritual movement is an expanding group of Spirit-filled Christians committed to a God-given goal—making Christ known and multiplying disciples who live out the Gospel wherever God has placed them.

Missional communities are expressions of these spiritual movements—networks of disciples, partners, and catalytic leaders who intentionally live out their faith together to create lasting impact in campuses, workplaces, and local communities. These communities are not merely gatherings; they are actively seeking the transformation of their spheres of influence, one person and place at a time.

The early church offers a compelling vision of what such communities can be. Acts 2:42-47 highlights the spiritual DNA of the first believers: they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. These rhythms were not optional; they were the lifeblood of the movement. Community was not a strategy—it was central to how they experienced Christ and advanced His mission.

Acts 11:25-26 also gives us a glimpse into the power of community in shaping leaders and movements. When Barnabas brought Saul to Antioch, they stayed with the believers for a year. That community became the launching pad for one of the most significant missionary efforts in history. Missional communities, like Antioch, provide the relational and spiritual environment where leaders grow, disciples mature, and bold steps of faith are taken.

As we envision the makeup of a missional community, three core traits emerge: relational, prayerful, and missional. Relationships built on trust and authenticity provide strength; but it is prayer that fuels our vision and compassion, connecting us to a larger spiritual journey; and mission gives direction and urgency. As members spur one another on, they begin to see their campuses, offices and neighbourhoods through God’s eyes—and act accordingly.

Our prayer is that each missional community will embody the presence and power of Christ. As they grow in devotion to Him and to one another, may they serve as light in the darkness and salt in every sphere of society—bringing the hope of the Gospel to their immediate communities, cities and beyond.

Missional communities are both a vision and a strategy—embodying the spiritual movement we long to build and witness. And they are central to how we fulfilll the Great Commission—together. Cru’s invitation for you is not just to join, but to engage your LIFE– leadership, influence, finance and expertise, in one of Cru’s missional communities. With Christ’s leadership alongside the body of Christ, let His Gospel transform nations and help close gaps in missions.