New Jerusalem, established in 1971, is a lay Catholic community of approximately 60 families. Our community center brings our lives together in an integrated, working-class neighborhood in Cincinnati. Each Sunday we gather for worship. During the rest of the week we seek to live out the Gospel of Jesus as extended family to one another and to brothers and sisters down the street and around the globe. Monthly we gather for prayer and discussion about our community life together.

Some of our current involvements include the care of Central American refugees, with a special commitment to our sister community in Nicaragua; housing rehabilitation; and work to protect the environment. Ten percent of our annual income is given away to those in need and those working for change.

After our founding by a Franciscan priest, and his departure in 1985, we have struggled to give authority to one another, to rechoose the community for what it is, and to accept responsibility for our own lives. While maintaining a good relationship with the church and respecting the tradition, we are also listening to the Holy Spirit and honoring our own experience. Our life is rich, full, and challenging as we integrate our personal journeys, families, careers, and community. We are happy to welcome you and to serve you as God leads, trusting that God will continue to bless us all with more abundant life together.