It’s Official: A New Name—But What’s in a Name, Anyway?
When we first shared that our Substack would be getting a new name, we promised to tell you more about why. Now that the transition is official, we want to reflect on what this change means—not just practically, but spiritually.
"What’s in a name? That which we call a rose, by any other name would smell as sweet."
This famous line from Romeo and Juliet reminds us that a name doesn’t change the essence of something or someone. And while that’s true in many ways, Scripture offers another dimension: a name is often not just a label, but a call to mission. And in some cases, a new beginning.
You may have noticed that this Substack has a new name. What was once I See a Movement is now called the Draw Near Collective. But rest assured: the voices and hearts behind it remain the same.
So why the change?
The name Draw Near Collective reflects more faithfully who we are and what God is inviting us to do. It unites us with the Draw Near podcast and ministry more directly, and it points to our mission: to help people draw nearer to God and to one another.
In the Bible, name changes happen at significant points. These moments reveal God’s mission for that person more fully.
Abram becomes Abraham: the father of a multitude of nations (Gen 17:5).
Sarai becomes Sarah: the mother of nations (Gen 17:15).
Jacob becomes Israel: the one who wrestles with God and of which the nation of Israel descends (Gen 32:28).
Simon becomes Peter: the rock on which Christ will build His Church; that is, the first Pope (Mt 16:18).
And Saul, though not formally renamed by God, is called Paul as he begins his mission to the Gentiles (Acts 13:9).
In each case, a new name was a divine turning point toward a new mission within God's saving plan.
For the Draw Near Collective, this new name points to a clearer mission, identity and sense of purpose. One that builds community, provides faithful Catholic formation in a variety of ways, and inspires others to fall deeply in love with Christ through meaningful, reflective content.
The vision of a “movement” hasn’t gone away. We fully believe that God is stirring hearts, renewing His Church, and raising up saints for our time. That hasn’t changed. But now, our name more clearly reflects how we hope to participate in that movement and answer God’s invitation. We must Draw Near… to God and to one another. And to the deep well of Catholic spirituality and truth.
We’re grateful you’re part of this journey. Whether you’ve supported us through prayer, encouragement, viewership, or paid subscriptions, we offer our sincerest “thank you.” Please continue walking with us under this new name, as we seek to draw near to the Lord and follow His will.