mDNA: Liminality and Communitas

May 27

Episode Summary

In this fourth episode of the KC Underground series on Movement DNA (MDNA), Brian and Corey explore the critical yet often misunderstood concepts of liminality and communitas. These are not just theological or theoretical ideas—they're the environments and relational dynamics where true spiritual formation and movement happen. Drawing from real stories and biblical examples, the conversation reveals why discomfort, risk, and shared mission are vital to experiencing the kind of bonded community that sustains disciple-making movements.

Key Themes & Takeaways

1. Defining the Terms

Liminality is a threshold space—where you've left something behind but haven't yet arrived at what's next. It’s a space of disorientation, vulnerability, and transformation.
Communitas is the deep, bonded community forged by walking through liminality together with others on mission. It is not simply community; it’s a shared purpose lived out in discomfort and trust.

2. Biblical and Life Examples

Israel in the desert, Jesus in the wilderness, and the disciples post-net-dropping are all examples of liminal spaces in Scripture.
Brian and Corey share stories of leaving familiar ministry contexts and stepping into uncertainty while forming KC Underground—highlighting how communitas formed through shared risks and obedience.

3. Why It Matters for Movement

Liminality is the environment where disciples are formed—not programs or comfort zones.
You cannot shortcut communitas; it emerges only when people take risks together for the Kingdom.

4. Practical Framework for Engagement

Step into risk: Name a step that stretches your faith.
Debrief regularly: Celebrate wins and learn from failures.
Repeat and reframe: Keep pressing in for the sake of Jesus and the people you’re sent to.
Expect reward: Realize that deeper community and transformation await on the other side.

5. Movement Language in KC Underground

“We are the church: a network of extended spiritual families who are reconciling communities on mission to bring beauty, justice, and good news to every context.”

Final Thoughts

Movements don't just need strong strategy—they require brave environments. If we try to form community without risk and mission, we may miss both community and movement. But if we step into liminal spaces with others, communitas will follow.