The Porter Christian Initiatives
Boone Porter Christian Initiative at Yale
The Porter Christian Initiatives at Yale was established in September 2003 through an endowment gift made through the generosity of the Porter family and a close friend of the late Reverend Canon H. Boone Porter (1923 - 1999). These 'Initiatives' both memorialize his unique qualities, wide ranging contributions to worship and parish life over 52 years of fruitful and dedicated ministry in the Episcopal Church. The 'Initiatives' seek to advance the cause of Jesus Christ by providing creative opportunities to students to grow in love and service to fellow human beings.
Each year, the interest from the endowment make it possible to provide a variety of experimental programs - self education, inspirational speakers, dialogue with other faiths, instructive travel, opportunities to teach, retreats, service assignments etc. in order to build understanding, maturity and commitment to the cause of Christianity in the 21st century.
The Rev. Dr. Porter, an alumnus of Yale (AB Yale '45, and later a degree from the Yale School of Forestry) was Professor of History at Nashotah Seminary and Professor of Liturgics at General Seminary, NY. He was also a Member of the Standing Liturgical Commission, Author of several books and articles; long time Editor of the Living Church. He was active in Civil Rights and Indian Missions. He is survived by his wife Violet Monser and has six children, one an Episcopal Priest.
This endowment is open for additional gifts in memory of the late Boone Porter and/or to further the intentions of the "Porter Christian Initiatives." Prospective new donors are kindly requested to contact the Chaplain by letter or email.
Program Development Supported by Porter Initiatives
Episcopal Chapel Singers
A university-wide student singing group dedicated to a repertoire in sacred music.
Science and Religion Dialogue
A discussion group for exploration of the developments in the sciences and their impact of questions of faith, belief and theology was co-sponsored. This co-sponsor ship made possible a matching grant (2004 – 2006) from the Metanexus Institute, Philadelphia.