‘Tis the Season!
For both theological and practical reasons, December is a time when many people do a great deal of their charitable giving. Theologically, as we gather for Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa, and Solstice, we celebrate God’s work in our lives by giving each other gifts. We celebrate God’s great gifts to us by practicing generosity to God’s world. Practically, as the end of the tax year, many people seek to make sure all their charitable giving is complete by December 31st so that they can claim the appropriate tax benefits.
Whatever your reasons, I would like to invite you to make a special contribution to Shalem this month. We are honoring our 50th anniversary this year, and there is much to celebrate: half a century of transforming people’s lives through passing on the rich heritage of contemplative prayer. Thousands of people in our city, nation, and around the globe have been touched by Shalem’s work. And at the same time that we celebrate that rich legacy, we look to the future. Vision 2025 challenges us to “be a dynamic and inclusive community, empowered by the Spirit, where seekers engage in transformation of themselves, their communities, and the world through spiritual growth, deep connection, and courageous action.”
None of this work can happen without your help. In this season of joy and gratitude, please make an end of the year gift to Shalem. The easiest way is to Click here and make a donation online. You can also send us a check at Shalem Institute, 1226 Vermont Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20005. We can also receive direct gifts stock, which give you the full tax benefit of the stock’s current value without the tax liability of stock appreciation. If you have any questions about giving, please contact me at charlie@shalem.org. For whatever you can give, please know how deeply grateful we are for your support.
