Purpose and Mission

The Purpose of Murray Grove Association 

Murray Grove’s purpose is to mark the origins of Universalism, a liberal religious tradition based on love and profound acceptance that transformed the landscape of religion in America. It has a long, proud history and is the site of the Universalist “miracle” almost 250 years ago through a fortuitous meeting between John Murray, a Universalist minister landing on the New Jersey shores from England and Thomas Potter, who built a local meetinghouse without a minister. We preserve and protect this heritage and to promote its message of Love and Inclusion. The Murray Grove Association was formed as a living memorial to the lives and the Universalist faith of John Murray and Thomas Potter.

The Mission Murray Grove Retreat and Renewal Center 

Murray Grove is a Universalist retreat center inspired by the concept of radical hospitality.  It serves people of diverse backgrounds both in person and on-line providing opportunities for rest, renewal, inspiration and growth.  Murray Grove supports people to create a world of greater kindness and justice.

Guiding Principles

The Murray Grove Association exists as a living memorial to the life and the Universalist faith of John Murray and Thomas Potter. Unitarian Universalists and friends and neighbors who seek to give to the world hope and courage enliven the legacy of Universalism by promoting the union of faith, love and actions as inspired foundations of building beloved communities.

Therefore, the policies, resources and actions of the Murray Grove Association’s Retreat and Renewal Center will result in:

• A preserved historic pilgrimage site where people of all traditions experience the heritage of Thomas Potter and John Murray;
• A sustainable residential retreat and renewal center where guests experience respite from everyday stresses and gain strength and a deepened capacity for unconditional love and radical inclusion;
• Educational opportunities where persons of all ages expand knowledge of Universalism and spread the message of love, hope and courage—thus strengthening the Unitarian Universalist faith;
• Prophetic outreach where religious and community leadership promotes love, justice and kindness in our communities and the greater world;
• A venue for the arts, where artists in all media present and develop their art, in service to the spirit of love, hope, and courage.

In 2014, the Murray Grove Association Board of Trustees approved the following motto:

Murray Grove—A natural setting for hope, transformation, service, and fun!