The Grove Wholistic Centre for Spirituality was first established in 1991 from the desire of two women who saw the need for a space where women could explore their lives, beliefs and spirituality through connection with their own story and the experience of other women. These two founding women set about developing a place that would empower and support women in achieving their potential, and return to their life situations more independent and inspired to direct and change their environment.

 

The centre began on the 4th February 1991, in a one-roomed attic of a large building belonging to the Sisters of Mercy, in the street called "The Grove" in East Coburg.

 

These two founding women saw a need and followed a dream. They embarked upon a journey of trust and hope, disappointment and frustration, as they began the slow process of following an unfolding path. They listened to the needs and responded with the limited resources at their disposal. Soon other women came to join them and a growing band of "pathfinders" worked year by year to develop the vision and unfold the story that is now The Grove's sacred story.

 

In times past groves were sacred places of ritual and secret ceremony - protected places where female power was honoured. This Grove slowly became this too.

 

It was both a metaphor and an actual place of transformation - a place where the feminine was honoured and explored. It was formed around the unique idea that is expressed in The Grove's logo - a pathway that winds through the trees and leads on out.

 

In 1996 The Grove transferred to its present site in Nicholson Street East Brunswick, as a result of outside pressures leading to the sale of the building where the centre had been housed. Although The Grove space moved, it carried with it the vision, experience and dreams incubated in "the attic" in East Coburg. There was a new naming and claiming of the Nicholson Street site which included a smoking ceremony performed by Aboriginal Elder, Joy Murphy and an acknowledgement that the centre is housed on the land of the Wurundjeri People.

 

Over the years, hundreds of women have crossed the threshold of The Grove and have discovered a place both outside of and within themselves where they can search out their spirituality, connect with other women on a similar search and enjoy the beauty and warmth of a community that cares.

 

Today The Grove has become a thriving entity in the broader community, drawing its clientele from all parts of Melbourne and beyond. It has become a sacred space for many.   It functions on volunteer power and welcomes women from all walks of life.  It is a living example of the words of Helder Camara spoken many years ago to give new hope to an oppressed people: