I recently was informed that this column is now sent to more than 7,000 recipients. It is a fair guess that more than a few are development directors in the business of raising funds for worthy causes and important institutions and that some others are donors. Many of these might appreciate a morale boost, an encouraging and affirming endorsement of their respective vocations of seeking and of giving. They would welcome thoughtful words on the deeper dimensions and broader consequences of fund raising and philanthropy. To these I would recommend Kerry Alys Robinson’s engaging new book titled: “Imagining Abundance: Fundraising, Philanthropy, and a Spiritual Call to Service”(Liturgical Press, Collegeville, Minnesota).
The book’s chapter titles alone are enough to whet one’s interest. Consider these few: “Two Sides of a Philanthropic Coin,” “Money Follows Mission,” “Habits of Inner Life for Outward Service” and “Development Is Ministry.” What’s more there is the praise from nationally recognized admirers. One of whom is Father James Martin. SJ.
Father Martin provides a ringing endorsement on the book’s back cover: “Kerry Alys Robinson is one of the great women in the Catholic church today. Her new book is an indispensable tool for all fundraisers and philanthropists, as well as all charitable organizations, who seek to help those in need. She brings a wealth of experience, a probing mind, and a deep respect for the life of the spirit to her amazing work, and now to her beautiful book. Highly recommended.”
As the Kingdom advances, giving and taking become offering and receiving. “Imagining Abundance” shows us how.