The Christian Life Community (CLC) is an international Catholic lay association of men and women who strive to deepen their relationship with God through Ignatian spirituality and a life of service. Rooted in the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, the CLC is committed to spiritual growth, community building, and active mission in the world.

Origins and History

The Christian Life Community traces its roots to the Marian Congregations, which were established in the 16th century under the guidance of Jesuits to promote a deeper devotion to Mary and to foster spiritual growth among laypeople. In 1967, these Marian Congregations were restructured and renamed as the Christian Life Community, emphasizing a broader Ignatian spirituality rather than a specific Marian focus.

The Christian Life Community (CLC) was established in Botswana in 1985. It was introduced through the efforts of Jesuit missionaries who were actively promoting Ignatian spirituality in the country. The movement was embraced as a way to deepen the faith and spiritual practices of lay Catholics, particularly those seeking a more structured and contemplative approach to their faith journey.

Since its establishment, CLC Botswana has grown steadily, forming small communities across parishes where members gather for prayer, reflection, and mutual support. These groups have played a significant role in empowering laypeople to take active roles in evangelization, social justice initiatives, and leadership within the Church.

Through the guidance of the Jesuit community and local Church leaders, CLC continues to thrive in Botswana, fostering a sense of community and mission among its members.

Core Elements of CLC

CLC members follow three key principles:

1. Spirituality:
   Members live by the Ignatian tradition, particularly the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, which focus on prayer, discernment, and finding God in all things.
2. Community:
   CLC groups are organized into small, supportive communities where members share their faith journeys, encourage one another, and discern together God’s call in their lives.
3. Mission:
   Inspired by the Gospel, CLC members are called to act in their personal, professional, and communal lives to promote justice, peace, and the dignity of all people.

Objectives and Mandate

The Christian Life Community seeks to:

• Foster a deep personal relationship with Christ through prayer and discernment.
• Cultivate a sense of community among members who support one another in their spiritual growth.
• Encourage active engagement in the Church’s mission through works of justice, peace, and service to the marginalized.
• Promote lay leadership in the Church, empowering members to bring Christian values into their everyday lives and professions.

Global Structure

CLC is present in over 60 countries worldwide and operates at three levels:

1. Local Communities:
   Small groups of members gather regularly for prayer, reflection, and mutual support.
2. National Communities:
   These bring together local communities within a country for collaboration and larger initiatives.
3. World Community:
   The international body coordinates CLC activities globally and ensures the movement stays true to its Ignatian roots.

Impact in the Catholic Church

• Formation of Lay Leaders:
  CLC equips lay members with the spiritual tools to serve as leaders in their parishes, workplaces, and communities.
• Missionary Work:
  Members actively participate in missionary and social justice initiatives, addressing issues such as poverty, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
• Youth Engagement:
  CLC has specific programs for young people, helping them integrate faith and life through Ignatian spirituality.

Biblical Basis

CLC’s mission and spirituality are deeply rooted in Scripture, particularly:

• Matthew 28:19:
  “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” CLC encourages members to take their faith into the world and make a tangible impact.
• Luke 4:18-19:
  “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.” CLC emphasizes living out the Gospel message through service to the marginalized.
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-26:
  “For just as the body is one and has many members… so it is with Christ.” CLC embodies the concept of community, where every member plays a vital role.