Since its opening, the lobby of our headquarters in Graymoor has welcomed people of all ages and beliefs. Visitors hail from the local Garrison, NY community and from around the world. Some seek spiritual solace, while others desire community engagement. True to our spiritual roots, the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement made the lobby simple, beautiful and inviting.
As we reflected on 125 years on the Holy Mountain this past year, we discussed ways to make the lobby even more welcoming and inclusive while maintaining our signature simplicity. We’ve implemented those changes and are proud to unveil our newly remodeled lobby.
Here’s what we’ve done in the spirit of honoring our history while looking ahead to the future:
Created a Circle of Reflection
As they step inside the Circle of Reflection, visitors immediately sense a holy and inviting ambiance where they can shed the hectic pace of the outside world. Here, guests have an opportunity to pray silently. They can also write personal intentions on a board, and those will be included in the Friars’ daily Masses.
Our hope is that everyone who visits the Circle of Reflection leaves with the peace of God and the sense of being spiritually joined with other visitors.
Expanded Our Displays
Working together and guided by our faith, we carefully went through our archives of books, manuscripts, journal, photos and keepsakes and selected items for the lobby that would resonate with guests. We have an amazing 125-year-old story to tell and we hope you’ll find it inspiring!
One of the walls now displays a beloved quote from Servant of God Fr. Paul Wattson, S.A., our founder: “Here is a motto which we should take and fulfill in our life, ‘Do all the good we can, in all the ways we can, to whomsoever we can,’ as long as God gives us the spirit.” Now more than ever, we need to take Fr. Paul’s words to heart and strive to do good in the world.
Our Minister General, Fr. Brian Terry, SA, says: “Come visit us soon and experience a new sense of peace and fellowship on the Holy Mountain. Every change to the lobby was done with you in mind so that you could enjoy At-One-Ment with us and other visitors in a true Franciscan spirit.”
We can’t wait to welcome you to Graymoor and show you our lobby.