|
Contemplative Outreach has never been stronger, yet we have
never been so much in need of support. As Contemplative Outreach moves into the
21st century, we are struck by the deep longing of people around the world who
express a spiritual hunger for a deeper relationship with God and a
contemplative dimension in their lives.
Reaching Out
 | Contemplative Outreach seeks to offer a full range of
programs nationally and internationally to sustain and nourish Centering
Prayer practitioners. We need to provide more ongoing support and training
for the volunteers, faculty, coordinators and facilitators who are
conducting these programs, so that they can effectively network with the
grassroots of the organization.
|
| We need to encourage programs that are reflective of
various cultures. Many of our current works must be translated into
different languages and in some instances, new materials must be created.
|
| The ecumenical nature of Centering Prayer requires
trained teachers and materials so that we may continue to reach and serve
many faith communities.
|
| We are called to meet the specific needs of our Prison
Ministry nationwide by providing trained facilitators, customized materials
and videos. |
Staying Connected
| Preserving the principles of Centering Prayer as they
have been formulated and presented in the works of Fr. Thomas Keating is
critical. We must continue to assist him in the production of materials that
support the integrity of the practice of Centering Prayer.
|
| Our ability to assist individual practitioners on their
personal contemplative path depends largely on our ability to support prayer
groups and make available retreats, workshops and courses that will nurture
and sustain their ongoing spiritual growth.
|
| The vast and ever expanding technology of the World Wide
Web must be harnessed as a tool to keep up with our fast-growing global
network. We need to expand services available on the Internet, which can
include audio and visual programs; discussion groups with Fr. Thomas and
other leaders; instructional materials; publications and multi-lingual
services.
|
| Our audio and visual resources must be updated and
digitally re-mastered to support new and existing courses and we need to
expand the content and distribution of the newsletter and other
publications.
|
| Our international office requires updated communication
tools, professional staff development and improved resource order
fulfillment to most effectively serve the network. |
Funding the Future
| Through the creation of an Endowment Fund, Contemplative
Outreach can assure that new programs, including initiatives to serve the
needs of the poor, aged, and handicapped, for example, will be launched. An
Endowment can assure the availability of funds for the continuation into the
future of Contemplative Outreach's mission. |
|
