The Spirituality of Giving: Generosity Begets Generosity
By Lorraine LaVigne, RSM
Posted on
Recently I had the opportunity to read A Spirituality of Fundraising by priest, author and teacher Henri Nouwen. This book opened a new awareness for me about the relationship between fundraising and giving, and how the experience of giving relates to the growth of our spiritual life.
It got me thinking about you, who so generously donate to Mercy by the Sea. Your commitment to the mission and vision of our ministry so clearly fits the definition of spirituality as “the way individuals seek and express meaning, purpose and their deepest values.” Nouwen, however, goes farther by seeing fundraising as a ministry, and giving as an opportunity to participate in the mission and vision of a ministry. I believe that you, our donors, find meaning and purpose in your lives by supporting and sharing the values of our sacred ministry. Together, as partners, we enable Mercy by the Sea to grow and flourish.
Nouwen also reminds us that our giving strengthens and expands the work of the community, inviting us to share in a deeper creative energy of love, community building and lasting relationships.
That’s exactly what your giving does. It not only supports our vision but also brings you into a relationship with that vision “to nurture a relationship with the sacred in self, others and creation that seeks to foster a just and compassionate world.”
At the end of Nouwen’s little book, I came away more deeply appreciative of the significance of partnering with you, our donors, in furthering the mission of Mercy by the Sea.
To receive a copy of The Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri Nouwen, please contact Development Director, Patty Dowling at pdowling@mercybythesea.org.
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