At Grace, we believe that authentic, loving relationships should permeate every aspect of church life and that life change happens best in small groups (Communities of Grace).  But truthfully, open and honest relationships are extremely difficult and can often become quite messy.  So, instead, we settle for the superficial relationships that are easier and require much less time and energy. The ones that never stretch or challenge us because we are not forced to understand and subsequently share who it is that we really are. Throw into that mix people who come from different backgrounds, have different ideas about how things should be done, and at times you have a real challenge on your hands.