NARDA/ONA Moves Forward:
Report from the 2006 Annual Gathering

It was nourishing and hope-giving to see one’s Centre as part of a larger picture, and so evident that we are meeting a hunger in the world and have a place in this time of religious and spiritual transition and change. Associations with peers such as this help staff stay current, open, fresh and responsive.

—Cheryl Lyon, Spirituality Centre

Enthusiasm, optimism and good energy prevailed at Five Oaks as we planned future actions for NARDA/ONA in May. The practical value and benefits of meeting with colleagues sharing the same work, telling stories and being inspired by a well designed program was evident as we worked toward defining future actions. In the works are:

Establishing an on-line discussion forum—participants wanted a practical and accessible way to communicate with each other. An on-line discussion form that any of us could access is underway.

Marketing of ONA as a network for Progressive Centres—Participants felt that ONA represents some of the best programming opportunities and hospitality service for progressive religious and social justice organizations in North America. We need to get the message about the unique and progressive nature of our organizations out to more people. Many ideas were discussed including web marketing and possibly print in progressive publications (Utne for example).

Pilgrimage Opportunities—Many centres are either doing or interested in doing international pilgrimages, study tours or solidarity delegations with international partners. It was proposed that this activity could be a collaborative exercise among a number of North American centres. Tours could even be held within North America to highlight aspects of programming at member centres.

SIGNIFICANT value for me was simply getting a chance to talk to other directors about operational and programming ideas, issues, and opportunities. Also, the email interaction that has occurred since the meeting has been great. I asked a staffing issue and just about everyone has provided valuable insights.

—Paul Campbell, Spirit in the Desert

Click here to download the complete notes from the Annual Gathering.

 

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