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Frequently Asked Questions (Vision)
Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions regarding the vision and principles of Bartimaeus Cohousing Community. There is also a separate project FAQ page for some of the practical aspects of our approach to cohousing and community life. If you have a question that is not covered on either page, you are more than welcome to ask, by emailing us at info@bartcommunity.org. What is the Bartimaeus Cohousing Community LLC?
Bartimaeus Cohousing Community LLC is the Limited Liability Company that is developing the Meadow Wood Condominium. The LLC will be gradually phased out once the development is completed. However, since the members of the LLC are now residents at Meadow Wood, the name “Bartimaeus Community” will continue to describe the community.
What does Bartimaeus Community hope to accomplish?
Like all cohousing communities, we hope to exemplify a “connected” lifestyle: sustained, healthy human interaction not often found in the car-oriented, isolation-prone neighborhoods of today. We also want to offer various services to the surrounding community, through the use of our common house. We envision inviting people for meals, offering seminars, educational coaching, creating a neighborhood nature path, and having prayer available several times a day for those who would like to participate and/or submit prayer requests. Our biggest accomplishment will be the growth in each of us, as we learn to love one another in more tangible (and less theoretical) ways.
Does Bartimaeus Community have an underlying social or religious agenda?
No. We have no agenda beyond what we’ve stated. We expect to have ongoing dialogue about current issues going on in our world, and to learn from each other. We enjoy a wide variety of viewpoints, which is a very positive thing, and we will grow by listening to each other. We do not expect anyone to toe a “party line” on any religious, social or political position. We also repudiate any shunning or “shutting out” of anyone who disagrees with someone’s individual opinion. We come into this community expecting to expand our lives through a healthy dialog about our differences.
There are so many kinds of “Christians.” What kind are you?
That is a difficult question, because our members do not fit stereotypical labels. The words that come to mind – evangelical, ecumenical, activist, contemplative, justice-oriented, sacramental, compassionate, green, conservative, progressive – are somewhat descriptive, yet each has its limits. We attend different area churches or, for some, no church at all. What most of us share is a belief in the divinity, passion and crucifixion, atonement and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. For those among us who do not share these convictions, there is a respectful environment of active listening. Every human being is created in God’s image, and therefore bears a dignity we hold in high regard.
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Christian views on authority differ widely. Do some Bartimaeus Community members practice any kind of “spiritual authority” within the community?
No. The main governing principle of the Bartimaeus Community is consensus, which is a loving, biblically valid approach to making wise decisions. Each individual in the community is a key contributor to the project and its vision, as well as to the community at large. Mutual help and encouragement is something to which we all aspire – both as givers and receivers. The undue exercise of intrusive “authority” of one person over another diminishes the true potential of both parties.
Do I have to be a Christian to be a part of Bartimaeus Cohousing Community?
No. We do not require or expect a declaration of faith or belief. All members, including spouses and extended family members, are asked to respect each other’s beliefs and opinions. When disagreements arise, dialog and respect are encouraged and expected. We do ask that all members, regardless of personal belief, respect the principles upon which Bartimaeus Community is founded.
Does Bartimaeus Community have a denominational preference?
No. Residents attend a number of different churches, including Anglican, Assembly of God, Baptist, Catholic, Charismatic, Christian Missionary Alliance, Evangelical Episcopal, Independent, Orthodox and Unitarian Universalist. Some members do not attend organized congregations. Some worship at home. Conformity to denomination-specific doctrines or beliefs is not required or expected. In matters affecting authority, community life and practice, consensus – not church government – is the recognized norm.
Do you practice the concept of a “common purse,” where community members’ incomes are shared?
No. We desire to be good stewards of what God has provided. By doing so in community, we believe we can be of practical benefit to others.
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