In the Acts of the Apostles, St Luke gives us fascinating insights into the young Christian community. Three thousand accepted Peter's message on the Day of Pentecost and were baptised - Acts 2:41.

He says, "the whole community remained faithful to the Apostles' teaching, to the brotherhood, to the breaking of bread and to the prayers" (Acts 2:42).

As to the brotherhood or fellowship (in Greek- koinonia), "the faithful all lived together and owned everything in common" (v 44) and were mindful of the needs of each one (v 45). They also saw themselves as "a body" going daily to the Temple, meeting and eating in homes, sharing their food "gladly and generously", and praising God (vv 46-47). Furthermore, God undergirded and confirmed the Apostles' outreach through the "many miracles and signs" worked through them (v 43).

What were the results of the witness of the Apostles and the young Christian community? The community at large was deeply impressed (v 43); the Christians were "looked up to by everyone" (v 47); and the Lord added more to their community! (v 47).

As we read and ponder on all these words, we will embrace the challenge to be life-long learners of the Word of God; to be generous and caring of others' needs; to take time together with others, to worship God.