History of Cultivating Connections

Cultivating Connections began in 1998 as a response to the need for Creation Spirituality Connectors to become more cohesive as a community. These Connectors were a diverse group of people living around the globe, who promoted Creation Spirituality events in their regions. Gale Hartman and Mark Steiner of Kentucky, and Catherine Browning, at that time from Kansas City but who then relocated to Kentucky, collaborated together to create a more efficient and personal Connector network. They recognized a strong need for Connectors to be more affirmed and supported with practical tools and resources. They developed an effective, up-to-date data base which made collaboration more feasible and worked closely with the University of Creation Spirituality to refer regional requests to appropriate Connectors. They also developed and provided brochures, pamphlets, bumper stickers, pins, worksheets, online support, educational tools, bibliographies, workshops, training sessions, retreats, and referrals to Creation Spirituality Connectors and to their communities at large.

During the early formation days of Cultivating Connections, several key people provided great support and creative input to the ongoing efforts that Gale, Mark, and Catherine were fashioning together. These important support people included: John Hartman, Laura Hartman, Rob Crabtree, Christina Sadavism, Jan Erlenbaugh Gaddis, and Jeannie DeSanto.

Since 2002 Cultivating Connections has entered a new phase of development. While still intimately involved with the Creation Spirituality tradition and movement, it has ventured out into the larger community. It has acted upon the need to form collaborative networks with other organizations and efforts. While still deeply committed to spirituality and the environment, Cultivating Connections is broadening its interest in and impact upon the economic, political, and social spheres of society.

Gale Hartman, while still promoting Creation Spirituality through her work, art, and life, has moved to the Chicago area and is no longer active with Cultivating Connections. Alex Cleveland of Kentucky has joined Cultivating Connections as a primary Board Member. Catherine Browning spends much of her time living and working in the Middle East, but continues to be committed to the founding mission and effectiveness of Cultivating Connections. Mark Steiner provides ongoing stability and continuity to the evolution and advancement of Cultivating Connections.