Empowering Hopeful Lives in the World for the World

St. James Episcopal Church in Monterey, California, is working to create an Episcopal Service Corps program called Grounded Hope ESC Monterey.  The Episcopal Service Corps empowers adults 21-32 to transform unjust structures through community-building, local collaboration, prayer, and action.  For more information about the Episcopal Service Corps in general, click here.

Grounded Hope ESC Monterey is a program designed to engage members in discerning hopeful lives in the world for the world. We engage the natural world and resources around us grounding our program in action, reflection, discernment, and spiritual curiosity. This program recognizes the potential transformation of all who fully participate in the life-giving work of service to others.

Corps members work in service related internships in the community, in agencies, non-profits, schools or related areas. They also spend time in prayer and spiritual activities like retreats, church experiences, and counseling. 

ESC corps members will live together for 10 months in intentional community in McGowan House Spiritual Center, part of the St. James campus in Monterey.

To fully realize our vision, we will renovate the second floor of McGowan House to accommodate up to five corps members.  This process will involve a phased renovation to increase accessibility, safety and the livability of the space.

This initial phase will include renovating two existing bathrooms, one designed with accessible features.

We are asking for your support in welcoming these young folks into our community.  Your donation of any amount will go a long way in making that possible. 

We have partnered with GiveButter to assist with our fundraising needs.  If you would like to support the work of this program please click the button below to be taken to the GiveButter fundraiser page.