From a study of chapter 13 of St John's Gospel, the author outlines the principles heralded by Jesus Christ for the development of the "New Community". Kennedy focuses not only on community building in the church, but also develops the meaning of footwashing for community building in the home.

This is one of the most comprehensive, contemporary statements which uses the Christian ritual of footwashing to develop an understanding of community for the church. From a study of St. John 13, it outlines the principles heralded by Jesus Christ for the development of the New Community. Not only does Kennedy focus on community building in the church, but he also develops the meaning of footwashing for community building in the home and the world. Contents: Introduction; The Politics of the Basin: A Perspective on the Church as Community; Challenge to Unity: Power and Influence in the Community; Leaders as Empowerers: True Servants in the Community; Celebrating the Bond Between Us: Mutuality in the Community; The Household of God: Community within the Community; Beyond Resentfulness: Forgivemess and Acceptance in the Community; Celebrating the Holy Life; Cleansing in the Community; The Way of the Cross: Suffering in the Community; Preparation for the Feast: Fellowship in the Eternal Community; Bibliography.