The Pluralism Project at Harvard University

Description

grass/roots Women's Spirituality Center is a non-profit organization in the greater Boston area that "serves as a catalyst for conversations, connections, and consciousness, ultimately enabling the building of spiritual communities." Membership is open to women of all faith traditions and spiritualities, and involves a commitment to contribute to the organization through participation, volunteer work, and/or monetary support.

Projects and Programs

grass/roots members determine the nature and scope of the organization's projects and programs based on their needs. The "Center" exists wherever an associated group meets. The most common activities sponsored by grass/roots are conversations, or salons, that are held in homes or in places of worship. Topics discussed cover a range of issues linked to women's spirituality, such as power, work, relationships, and religious traditions. While most conversations are open to all, such as the "Women's Spirituality Circle," a few are by invitation only, such as "Leaders of Women's Studies and Research Programs."

Other Activities

Other activities include creative rituals, such as the Rent Tent model Seder led by Jewish women, or "The Next Supper," an inclusive alternative to Holy Thursday worship. These activities provide a sacred space for women to honor their spiritual capacity in community. Lecture series and seminars are also held in local venues on various topics of interest to women who are seekers.

Leadership and Fundraising

grass/roots is managed by its Director and Council. As a volunteer organization, operational costs are supported by contributions from the women who participate. However, annual "Friend-Raisers" are held featuring special guests, typically writers, who give a presentation and lead discussion. These events, intended to expand the grass/roots community, are open to both women and men.

Origins of Name

The slash in the organization's name is intended to indicate action - the action of women as they grow, nurture, and support one another in their exploration of spirituality. "grass" symbolizes the organic nature of the organization and its membership, while "roots" refers to its connectedness to the great religious and spiritual traditions and our interdependence as spiritual beings.

Mission

Nancy Corcoran, CSJ, Director of grass/roots explained, "Often, women are on the periphery of society. With consciousness, the periphery becomes the cutting edge. In a historical moment, crying for compassion, grass/roots creates spaces for women to articulate their journey toward wholeness. Our mission is to support women becoming such ethical agents of change."