Living Our Core Values: Compassion

Compassion asks us to go where it hurts,

To enter into the places of pain,

To share in brokenness, fear, confusion, and anguish.

Compassion challenges us to cry out with those in misery,

To mourn with those who are lonely,

To weep with those in tears.

Compassion requires us to be weak with the weak,

Vulnerable with the vulnerable,

And powerless with the powerless.

Compassion means full immersion in the condition of being human.

~Henri Nouwen

Our founding by the Felician Sisters means compassion has always been at the core of our mission. Compassion drives our commitment to serving others with empathy, respect, and dignity. But each of us individually can practice compassion as we move through the world. Compassion calls us to love our neighbors, and support those who are in need. After reading Henri Nouwen’s meditation, you might reflect on how compassion can bring healing and transformation.