Brigid's Place
a place for living the questionsFormally established in 1996, Brigid's Place in Houston Texas is ecumenical in nature and open to all wishing to explore the diverse, yet sometimes paradoxical, myriad of expressions of spirituality and intellectual life. It answers a need reflective of the energetic and questioning times in which we live. Through classes, lectures, discussion groups, weekend workshops and retreats - many of which are offered free of charge - Brigid's Place provides a space for exploring the meaning of life and the unique complexity of our spiritual journeys through life. No matter the context of our individual quests, at heart we all come together to share our lived experience, for it is in the sharing of our stories that we learn and grow. Brigid's Place also offers an opportunity for us to better understand each other by fostering an appreciation of our continually evolving roles as dictated by the socially dynamic environment in which we live.
Brigid's Place is named for St. Brigid, a 5th century Irish Celtic saint who, based on the social concept of equality between men and women, founded a double monastery of nuns and monks. Residents of the monastery became known for their wisdom and compassion as well as their proficiency in the healing arts. A non-profit organization, incorporated in the State of Texas, Brigid's Place is governed by a Board of Directors whose decisions are made in consultation with the Rotating Circle, an advisory group of approximately twenty members of varying backgrounds. Brigid's Place is supported by an Administrator and a host of dedicated, capable, and loyal volunteers.
Brigid's Place patrons range in age from 14 to 90; come from Houston and surrounding areas; and traverse all walks of life. Funding for Brigid's Place comes primarily from individual donations and philanthropic foundations including the Trinity Grants Program. Fees charged for some classes and workshops subsidize current funding. We remain indebted to the charitable and unwavering support of Christ Church Cathedral, which provides an array of monetary and other services including the provision of office space and meeting facilities.
Brigid's Place also has an active community outreach program to help less fortunate women meet the challenges of life. Our present project, Brigid's Hope, began in September 1998 to assist women parolees prepare for a meaningful existence as they make their way in this frustrating and complicated world. Thanks to generous and deeply appreciated grants from various sources including the Episcopal Health Charities, the Clayton Fund, the Houston Endowment Fund, to name a few, Brigid's Hope is able to provide shelter, mentoring, and spiritual support, while coordinating the necessary services that will ensure a successful transition and ultimate independence of previously incarcerated women.
In an effort to provide a forum for individual expression Brigid's Place publishes a semi-annual publication called the Women's Journal. Contributors to the journal share their personal and frequently, heretofore, unshared experiences of their journeys through life. Brigid's Place also publishes a semi-annual Program Brochure, listing upcoming sponsored events including workshops, lectures, group field-trips, etc. Topics range from accessing one's spirituality and the mysticism of the God within to the state of our global ecology. We welcome your request to add your name to our mailing list and can be advised of the same via telephone at 713-590-3333, fax at 713-222-2412 or email at brigidsplace@christchurchcathedral.org . Their web site is www.brigidsplace.org
The generous and ongoing support of our well-wishers and patrons remains deeply appreciated. Donations to continue the work of Brigid's Place may be mailed to Brigid's Place at 1117 Texas Avenue, Houston, Texas 77002.