Nina Simon writes about how many organizations are blessed to have a wonderful “treasure” at its heart—mission, community, place— tucked away in a glorious room with a door and a sign that says “All Welcome.” Alas, too often THAT door is not THE door for many, and despite the welcome sign it isn’t, well, welcoming. So the treasure stays tucked away, embraced and shared by the few for whom that door was indeed THE door.
The Grail in the US is blessed in that over the years, we have become a room MADE of doors: some small, some large, some that burst with activity, some that exude peace, some that open into specific place, and some that open to ANY space. At our 70th anniversary party at Grailville in 2015, there was an activity where guests could write out HOW they met The Grail and many were surprised to read of how others first knew us. For some it was attending Year School or SAG, others it was Practice of Poetry or Metanoia, still more from the trails or labyrinth. Some it wasn’t’ Grailville at all but our centers in the Bronx, or Cornwall, Detroit or San Jose. For others it was through their faith. EACH of these is a doorway to The Grail. Take a moment and think about what door welcomed you. Regardless of the door you use, the treasure inside holds true: “Called by our spiritual values, we envision a world of peace, justice, and the renewal of the earth, brought about by women working together as catalysts for change.” Please enjoy this SNAPSHOT review of what we have accomplished in 2019.
We could not have achieved what we have without the financial generosity given and well-managed over the years NOR could have we done so much without our wonderful volunteers. Whether you have given of your time, energy, prayers, or dollars—THANK YOU! We hope that you will continue to support The Grail in 2020.
Although it is easiest to financially support the “door” you came through, we ask that donations be made simply to The Grail in the US without restriction so that we may continue to support access to all regardless of the door that welcomes them.
With warm blessings during this season of renewal and reflection,
Terrie Puckett
Executive Director, The Grail in the US