Murphy Initiative Announcement

Written on: July 30, 2018

With the realization that everything has a life-cycle and after months of discernment, a decision was made to “lay down” the P Francis Murphy Initiative for Justice and Peace. The hope, and actually the belief, is that the work of the Murphy Initiative will live on in a variety of ways through the lives of those who were touched by the initiative’s work and the organizations with whom the Initiative collaborated. Certainly the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart will miss having this resource, but remain committed to keeping issues of Peace and Justice in the forefront as the most important issues of our day.

Following is the official letter sent to the collaborating communities and Friends of the Murphy Initiative.

Dear Friend of The Murphy Initiative,

Sixteen years ago in 2002 fourteen courageous religious congregations came together to address the need for an organization focusing on the causes of justice and peace in the Baltimore area.

What has come to be called the P Francis Murphy Initiative for Justice and Peace was the result of that collaboration. Although Bishop Frank Murphy has only known us from heaven, we have accomplished much in his name! On average we presented two workshops/lectures a year and for the past 9 digital years have posted weekly/bi-weekly news updates, blogs, and e-mail blasts for the breaking events. We have also worked very diligently to set up, not one, but two websites.

We have grown to a 16 religious congregation coalition that works alongside many partners to advocate for justice and peace in society and the Catholic Church, guided by a vision for a world of dignity and respect for all people and creation. We often remind ourselves of Bishop Murphy’s motto … “God speaking in human words.”

For several years we sponsored winter concerts of the Handel Choir of Baltimore. One of our favorite memories is their performance of the song written by Fr. James Hannon celebrating that motto!

So, today it is with both sadness and thanksgiving that we announce our decision to lay down the Murphy Initiative effective July 9, 2018.

Closing with dignity-rather than staying open until our resources and personnel are completely depleted – has emerged as the best decision during these painful times.

This decision comes after a great deal of consideration, exploration, and prayerful discernment. Over the last years, we have experienced the effects of the changing reality facing religious congregations.

We offer much gratitude for the many special people who have led us, mentored us, partnered with us, and supported us over these years!

On behalf of the Board of Trustees,

Sr. Sue Weetenkamp, RSM
Chair of the Board

This entry was posted in With a Heart for Justice and tagged: "God speaking in human words", advocate, Baltimore, Bishop Frank Murphy, Catholic Church, dignity, Justice, Murphy Initiative, P Francis Murphy Initiative for Peace and Justice, peace, Religious Congregations, respect, society