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An Invitation
Welcome. Pjila’si. Bienvenue. Fàilte oirbh. We invite you to spend a year exploring and deepening your Christian faith in an intentional ecumenical community in Unama’ki – Cape Breton Island. In Cape Breton, we have a rich history of hospitality, diversity, generosity, and mutual aid. We have a long tradition of an open door and an extra place at the table for guests. We hope you will join us at the Greg MacLeod House for a year of learning, service, community, and faith.
During your year living at the Greg MacLeod House you will
• be part of a community that nurtures connections
• explore the links between your university studies and your faith
• practice leadership and hospitality
• learn from other faith traditions
• strengthen your relationship with God
We are seeking a diverse group of men and women from a variety of backgrounds and Christian traditions.
This is the perfect opportunity for you if:
· You will be enrolled in study at Cape Breton University in the 2021-2022 academic year
· You are a Christian, from any Christian church or tradition
· You are open to learning from others
· You are willing to live in community with those from other Christian traditions
· You are longing for something more meaningful in your life
Who was Greg MacLeod?
Greg MacLeod (1935-2017) was a priest, professor, and social activist on Cape Breton Island. He valued ecumenism, service, and learning. He founded many community businesses and development organizations. He made global connections and believed in the power of ideas and the dignity of all people.
What is the Greg MacLeod House?
In the 2021-2022 academic year, The Greg MacLeod House will be home to six CBU students who will commit to sharing a life of service, prayer, and hospitality in intentional community. The house is equipped with four private bedrooms, one shared loft, three bathrooms, two kitchens, and common living areas, as well as a beautiful backyard. Laundry facilities are available. Located at 37 Esplanade, on the Sydney waterfront, it is within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants, the local library, and a bus route.
What do we mean by intentional community?
Living in intentional community is about more than simply sharing living space. Members of the community commit to learning from one another, spending time together, assisting one another, and resolving conflict in a healthy manner. As you form your community in the Greg MacLeod House, you will find your own ways of building connections among the members of the house community, and among the wider Cape Breton community. Respect, compassion, and forgiveness are all foundations of community life.
What do we mean by Ecumenical?
Ecumenism is the practice of working together as Christians from different churches and traditions. Ecumenism promotes unity and responds to Jesus’ prayer “that all may be one.”
As an Ecumenical house, the Greg MacLeod House will foster opportunities for mutual learning and exploration of faith. Your own Christian practices will be very welcome. We ask that you respect the practices of others and approach new things with curiosity and an open mind.
Though the House will be home to Christian students, we strongly encourage Interfaith dialogue and engagement. Members of other faith traditions or no faith tradition will be very welcome as guests and to share their practices and beliefs in a spirit of respect and learning.
What will life in the house be like?
In 2021-2022, you will be part of the very first cohort of residents in the Greg MacLeod House. You will help develop the rhythms of life in the house and create a home that we hope will welcome generations of students.
Each resident will have a private or shared room and access to shared kitchen and living space. You will purchase your own groceries and be responsible for keeping all common areas tidy and clean.
Once a week, all the residents will gather (along with guests, if allowed by COVID-19 safety guidelines) for a community night: a shared meal, prayer, and an activity. All residents will be asked to take part.
Care for creation is a priority. Please make every effort to reduce and recycle waste, purchase local food, use public transportation, and conserve energy. The House will be an example of care for the earth.
What will be expected of me?
As a resident of the Greg MacLeod House, you will be a leader in the CBU community and the wider community, modeling Christ-like hospitality and service.
Along with other residents, you will plan a weekly community night and prepare food to share that evening. You may invite guests to share in prayer or other activities.
You will attend worship and participate in the life of a local parish or church congregation. If you are new to Cape Breton, we will be happy to help you find a local parish or congregation.
You will be part of the leadership team of the CBU Newman Student Club. The Club plans lectures, retreats, prayer, and other opportunities for CBU students to explore their faith.
As a team of residents, you will work together to create opportunities to promote justice, service, and generosity, and to share in times of friendship and fun.
At least once a year, you will participate in a retreat along with the other residents.
What is the cost?
Thanks to the generosity of donors, the cost will be just $2,400 for the eight months of the academic year (September to April). Summer housing may be arranged for additional cost.
Included in the cost is a private or shared room at the Greg MacLeod House along with all utilities, access to the internet, laundry facilities, a weekly meal for community night, and an annual retreat. The House is fully furnished.
You will be responsible for your daily groceries, personal items, and transportation.
How do I apply?
Please complete the application form below by Tuesday, June 1.
If you are selected for an interview, we will contact you no later than Tuesday, June 22. Interviews will take place either in person or using Zoom.
If you are accepted as a resident, you will be asked to pay a deposit of $150.
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