Communities Directory: The Othona Community

Established: 1946

The Othona Community

Essex, England,

United Kingdom

The Othona Community is an ecumenical Christian community founded in 1946 by an Anglican clergyman, Rev. Norman Motley. Now a registered charity, we have a lifestyle based on nondogmatic Christianity. Who comes? People of all faiths (and none), of all ages, of all backgrounds, and from all over the world--anyone who values a sense of community--come for breaks ranging from a few days to several weeks. Where is it ? Othona has centers in Essex and Dorset, run by a small "core" community. What do we do? We aim to grow together through the following means.

Work: Everyone shares chores such as washing up, and there are extra tasks for willing hands.

Worship: Our twice-daily services are taken by volunteers, so each service is different--maybe traditional, Celtic, silent, incorporating drama, or a children's service.

Study: Many weeks have a speaker/facilitator. Past study themes have included diverse topics such as Celtic Christianity, letters of St. Paul, art in nature, massage, and retreat breaks. Some weeks are especially aimed at children, often incorporating drama and music.

Play: Both our centers are in the countryside by the sea, so swimming and walking are popular. There is no TV at Othona, so entertainment, like the cooking, is always homemade!

Website: http://www.othona.org/

Contact:

East Hall Farm, East End Rd
Bradwell-on-Sea, Southminster
Essex, England CM0 7PN United Kingdom
Phone: +44-(0)1621-776-564
Send an Email

International Telephone Info

Former/Other Names: East Hall Farm

This data is based on the FIC's Communities Directory 2000 edition, www.ic.org, and/or cohousing.org.

Visitors Accepted

Population Open to new adults: Yes Open to new children: Yes	Government Decision Making: Other (All major decisions are made by the elected committees and ratified by the trustees as per the trust deed.) Identified Leader: Yes Leadership Core Group: Yes	Labor and Money Financial Style: Members have independent finances Financial Style: Other (A member of the community pays a small subscription (enough to cover production cost of a quarterly magazine). Members (and nonmembers) visiting a center are asked to contribute toward their stay and guideline rates are applied but ability to pay is considered. Similarly donations above the guideline rates are welcome.) Join Fee: No Regular Fees: Yes
Land and Buildings Rural Area: 410 acres (165.9 hectares) Land Owned By: The community Number of Residences: 10	Food, etc. Percentage of Food Grown: none Share Community Meals: Nearly all meals Dietary Practice: Omnivorous Alcohol Use: Used Often Tobacco Use: Used Often	Social Factors Shared Spiritual Path: Yes Which Spiritual Path(s): Ecumenical (includes "all religions") :: Other Educational Style(s): Public schooled

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