John Winthrop left England at a time when those with puritanical beliefs such as his were frowned upon and mistrusted under the rule of Charles I. Winthrop gave his "Christian Charity" serom either sometime before leaving England, during his voyage or shortly thereaafter.

Trying to put together his beliefs he stressed the need for "community" and love regardless of a person' station in life. It was normal to have all"classes," contributing to God's glory whilst emphasizing that "no man is made more honorable than another."  

That everyone has a contribution to make was the mantra of John Winthrop and justice and mercy - stemming from  natural laws and from grace - ensures that not only will man help his neighbor but he will go beyond his own means to ensure help for others, even at great personal sacrifice.

"Community of Perils" calls for "extraordinary liberality...in some special service of the church." Everyone is essentially responsible for one another as we are  "of one body with Christ." Each person will feel the pain of another; for example, a wife hearing her husband "groan" will feel sad and "mourns with it."