Across the United States, hundreds of people have built on what they have learned through the Institute of Cultural Affairs. They work in rural towns and city neighborhoods, in education, health care, in businesses of all sizes. They work with local governments and with the United Nations, with churches and with many kinds of organizations. With a global context, they are exploring, discovering, partnering, mentoring, sharing what they have learned, and beckoning others to join in the journey of care for all. These people and their work is a Living Legacy from the pioneering work of the Ecumenical Institute, the Order Ecumenical, and the Institute of Cultural Affairs during the last 40 years.
Many have suggested that it is time for ICA-USA to convene a conversation about what the larger “We” is doing and what the world needs from “Us” at this time. Last year over 150 people expressed interest in attending such an event. This year we have discerned three arenas to help focus the conversations – 21st Century Spirituality, Sustainable Development, and Participation Edges. Profound Vocation is central to this conversation and is found in all arenas. It involves passion and a sense of calling to do and to be on behalf of the world and the future.