Mission Institute launches Web site

A new Web site, www.themissioninstitute.org, launched today as part of a new and developing collaborative initiative of Episcopal City Mission, Episcopal Divinity School and the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts.

The Mission Institute has been created, according to its mission statement, "to provide individuals, congregations and communities with innovative learning opportunities that nurture leaders, advance spiritual growth and support the flourishing of just, healthy societies," and it intends to offer "a platform through which people can access a rich array of resources that fuel transformational ministry especially in urban settings."

The new Web site will spotlight the Mission Institute's own programs, according to director Diane D'Souza, but will also be a tool for connecting people with events, resources and inspiration from other sources.

"A guiding question that helps to shape the site’s content, themes and conversations is: Who is missing at the tables of our church, society or group?  And how can we can help make a place for life-giving but often marginalized stories, strengths and experiences that serve to enrich us all?" D'Souza explained.

The concept for the Mission Institute has roots in the part of the diocesan mission strategy that calls for providing resources to congregations, especially in urban communities.  When the case for the diocese's Together Now fundraising campaign was developed in 2010, a portion of it was earmarked for the purpose of developing an institute in partnership with Episcopal City Mission and Episcopal Divinity School. The Mission Institute was designated by the campaign to receive $1 million over five years to fund its first phase.