The name for this communal effort—The Radix Project—draws on the Latin word for “root,” which is radix. Jesus modeled small group relationships in his life and ministry, and the early Church was structured on small groups who worshipped, prayed, and cared for one another.

Those are our roots, and in our time, when so many pressures of modern life leave us feeling alone and isolated, Christian community offers us a tangible way of entering into relationships rooted in trust and mutuality. The root word, radix, also gives rise to the oft-touted word we hear a lot these days—radical. A radical is not one who goes their separate way, doing their own thing. A radical is one who is so well-grounded with deep roots that they are able to stretch out to the fringes of existence and offer us all a different way of being in the world. We speak of radical hospitality or radical welcome because we claim our deep roots of this life in Christ, and we are willing to claim a radical vision for our lives and for the world. Radix groups reveal this connection in tangible and life-giving ways. An archive of past Radix series is here.

Reflections from Radix Participants:

“I'm not sure I would be a part of Saint Mark's without Radix. I signed up for it when I stumbled on to Saint Mark's in the early days of the pandemic and established friendships that drew me in to the Saint Mark's circle.”

“Radix is nourishing in a way that I didn't expect a virtual small group could be. I first participated during Covid when I felt especially isolated and met the most generous and interesting group of people. Not only does Radix provide new insights and references, but everyone is willing to sit together in moments of discomfort and struggle and support each other. Radix allows me to strengthen my connection not only to Saint Marks but also to the community within.”

“I love getting to explore familiar passages with new eyes. I find that the intergenerational nature of the group brings such unique perspectives, life experiences, and wisdom to each passage, discussion question, and piece of art.”

“Radix helps me find a deeper personal connection to our parish community by introducing me to parishioners I have not met before and by encouraging me to get to know them better.  As we share stories of our lives, engage in earnest conversation about scripture, and pray for each other over six successive weeks and beyond, we build a small community of friends in Christ, grounded in mutual trust, confidentiality, and prayer. My encounters in Radix with parishioners who are active in various ministries inspire and encourage me to become more active in ministry at Saint Mark’s.”