What Is A Catholic Neighbourhood Community?

A Catholic Neighbourhood Community (CNC) is a small group of adults and, at times, children who gather to reflect on their lives in the light of the Gospel and to share their Christian faith through prayer, friendship and service. The early Christians gathered in small groups, most frequently in a home. That experience allowed a deep sharing of faith and life. Today, CNCs facilitate that deep sharing in the presence of trusted friends. Relationships are formed in which sharing, listening and genuine communication are nurtured. The sharing of faith and life leads to action on behalf of others. Although each CNC is unique in its membership, style, and meeting format, every CNC is involved in the following activities:

• Mutual support and faith sharing.
  
• Prayer and ritual.
  
• On-going formation in Scripture and Tradition that enables tangible connections between faith and life.
  
• Outreach beyond the CNC.
  

Small Church Community members are involved in numerous parish ministries as well as outreach projects born out of the faith sharing of their small communities.

Our Catholic Neighbourhood Community?

Here in St. Anthony’s Church, to date, there are 11 CNCs grouped largely into 8 zones. Each CNC comprises 8-10 Catholic members under the care and leadership of a group leader.

Below is a breakdown of the number of CNCs in each zone:

To date there is much camaraderie between families and some CNCs who have gone on social outings such as BBQs and parties organised among themselves. Zone Masses, Rosary and Bible-sharing sessions have also been organised.

This year, we have introduced the CAFÉ program to all the CNC zones to reinforce our basic foundation of our Catholic faith. Many of the members from various zones has also served the community pastorally by giving Home Communion to those who are home bound. Supporting the bereaved families during wakes is also part of serving and being part of the larger community in Woodlands.

However, we are still in the process of building up the communities and with our on going announcements on the essence of such communities, we hope by our actions, we would see it grow to many more CNCs with all members who are spirit filled disciples spreading the Good News.

The Spirit leads the company of believers to 'form a community,' to be the church. After Peter’s first proclamation on the day of Pentecost and the conversions that followed, the first community takes shape (Acts 2:42-47; Acts 4:32-35).

On of the central purposes of mission is to bring people together in hearing the Gospel, in fraternal communion, in prayer and in the Eucharist. To live in 'fraternal communion' (Koinonia) means to be 'of one heart and soul' (Acts 4:32), establishing fellowship from every point of view: human, spiritual and material. Indeed, a true Christian community is also committed to distributing earthly goods so that no one is in want, and all can receive such goods 'as they need'... The first communities, made up of 'glad and generous hearts' (cf Acts 2:46), were open and missionary: They enjoyed 'favour with all the people' (Acts 2:47). Even before activity, mission means witness and a way of life that shines out to others.

If you have any queries on our parish Catholic Neighbourhood Communities or you would like to join which zone you belong to, you may email the Pastoral Coordinator, Kenny Chen at or call the office at 6368 3804 (ext.12).

Some Of Our Photos

CNC Easter Celebrations (2008)