Dr. Eric W. Gritsch

December 10, 2018

 

Dear Friends,

I am writing you today on behalf of the Eric W. Gritsch Memorial Fund. Late November ushers in two holidays: Thanksgiving, a secular holiday dedicated to rendering thanks for the bountiful gifts we enjoy, and Christmas, a specifically Christian tradition to be sure, but one embedded in a period of preparation and renewal represented by both the evergreen Christmas tree and the last embers of the yule log which promise good luck for the coming year.

We on the board of the Gritsch Fund are counting our blessings as well, as we look forward to a promising future. In the last five years, the Fund has sponsored a number of events: symposia with distinguished scholars as speakers; the annual Lutherfest at Zion Church, a celebration of the life and wit of Martin Luther; and behind-the-scenes tours at the Walters Art Gallery. Of course, the guiding spirit behind all the Fund’s activities is the life and work of the Rev. Eric W. Gritsch. Most importantly, however, the Fund seeks to encourage scholarship so that Eric’s legacy will be augmented and enhanced by new generations. That hope has been realized most concretely in the Fund’s ability to offer a fellowship early in their careers to scholars who are pursuing some aspect of Reformation Studies.

 

Sponsoring a significant fellowship in Eric’s name on an on-going basis is one of the primary goals of the Fund. Your support for each event is vital to the on-going financial viability of the Gritsch Fund, but larger contributions independent of a specific event are going to be needed if we are to continue to fund the fellowship at a level where it can truly aid young scholars. If, in your own reflections at year’s end, you find yourself in a position to make additional charitable donations, your gift to the Gritsch Fund would be very much appreciated and would go directly to helping young scholars in their studies.  We know that in life Eric fostered a love of learning and fellowship; your help allows us to continue this wonderful legacy.

Donations can be made out to The Eric W. Gritsch Fund and mailed to the above address.

With the best wishes for the holiday season!

Randall P. Donaldson, Ph.D.

 

For the Board of the Rev. Eric W. Gritsch Memorial Fund