Emerging communities represent diverse and evolving groups within or at the periphery of our traditional church ethos. These communities may differ significantly from our established congregations in terms of ethnicity, socio-economic status, cultural background, or lifestyle, but their faith, passion, and mission match our Episcopal expression. This outreach is not only a matter of growth but also a reflection of the church’s mission to embody the love of Christ. What follows are emerging community ideas, examples, and resources:

Community College, Technical or Trade School, and University 
The years following high school graduation are full of significant life changes, all within a relatively short time. Whether a graduate starts college or a job, it is a critical stage in life where the Church can be a support community. 

Public Schools
Each church within the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego is a short distance from an elementary, middle, or high school. Most are within 4 miles of a Title 1 public school. Neighboring schools are full of students and families who may be seeking a faith community. These schools might need reading buddies, after-school tutors, and more. Volunteering in this way can build relationships while helping students in your community improve test scores and education outcomes. While direct Christian formation offerings during the school day are prohibited by law, sharing God’s love with students and their families is an opportunity for all congregations. Gracious hospitality, gentle invitation, and a network of support are gifts that we have to share.

Head Start programs
Several EDSD congregations host Head Start programs on their campuses. These federally funded programs offer qualifying families no-cost early childhood and family education. While direct Christian formation offerings during the school day are prohibited by law, sharing God’s love with children and their families is an opportunity for all attached congregations. Gracious hospitality, gentle invitation, and a network of support are gifts that we have to share. 

Senior Living Communities 
These are age-restricted residential communities for seniors at various income levels and medical care needs. Residents may experience higher levels of social isolation and opportunities for fellowship, formation and worship within their communities are often welcome.

Chapparal Chapel – Sacred Trails
Sacred Trails provides the opportunity for those who connect best with God in nature. Sacred Trails takes discipleship out of our churches and into the wild. MORE

Rhythms of Grace
This unique approach to worship and formation is designed to meet the spiritual needs of children and families with special needs. MORE

Border Church
Many families across our region are separated by the border between the United States and Mexico. Recognizing that something deeply spiritual and relational was happening along the border between separated people, since November 2011, people have gathered on both sides of the fence each Sunday afternoon to share communion, conversation, and meals. MORE