Embracing Empathy

Empathy is more than just understanding someone else’s feelings; it is a call to action, a way of seeing and connecting with the world. This month, we center our reflections around empathy, embracing its transformative power to foster connection, healing, and unity.

The service opened with a warm greeting from Chaplain Barksdale, setting the tone for a meaningful morning. Ana C.H. ’26 shared Henry David Thoreau’s words, which posed an important question: "Could a greater miracle exist than for us to look through each other's eyes for an instant?"

Led by Dr. Francis Yun, the congregation joined in singing Make Me a Channel of Your Peace, a hymn that speaks to the heart of empathy. Kate D. ’25 and Lexi W. ’26 shared personal stories about how others have extended empathy to them in their lives, and Romans 12:15-18 was read by Aliah R. ’25. These verses underscore the responsibility we all share in extending kindness, understanding, and grace to others.

Mrs. Michelle Andrade introduced the concept of empathy with her personal experience as well as a thought-provoking video by Brené Brown, who describes empathy as feeling with people rather than simply feeling for them.

Following this, students and faculty engaged with key reflection questions:

The second video, "Don’t Put People in Boxes," challenged us to examine our biases and the ways we categorize others, urging us to practice empathy in deeper, more intentional ways.

Jane W. ’27 led a heartfelt community prayer, asking for the strength to truly see, listen, and understand one another. We then recited an adaptation of The Lord’s Prayer by Parker Palmer, reminding us of God’s presence in our shared human experiences.

The service concluded with the uplifting hymn Peace Like a River and a final blessing from Chaplain Barksdale: "Go in peace to love and serve."

February 28, 2025
St. Mary’s Chapel | Chatham Hall