CONGREGATION + COMMUNITY NEWS
PEOPLES PRESS
Joyfully Defiant for the Sake of a Just World
A congregation of the United Church of Christ,
the Alliance of Baptists & the American Baptist Churches
Empathy Is Not Always Easy
"Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep" (Romans 12:15).
Dear Beloveds,
As we already know, we live a world marked by division, discord, and polarization. Therefore, it is imperative for us, as a community of faith, to anchor ourselves in the tenants of love compassion, and most of all empathy.
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It is a virtue that lies at the heart of our faith. It calls us to see beyond our differences, to recognize the humanity in each person we encounter which allows us to respond in the face of disagreement or conflict. In times of division, empathy serves as a powerful antidote to the forces that seek to tear us apart. It allows us to bridge the gaps that separate us, to build connections across divides, and to foster a sense of solidarity and belonging.
Empathy is not always easy. It requires us to step outside of ourselves, to listen with open hearts and minds, and to be willing to engage with perspectives that may challenge our own. It demands patience, humility, and a willingness to extend grace. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of discomfort and tension that empathy becomes most crucial. It is when we encounter those who hold views different from our own, or when we witness the pain and suffering of others, that our capacity for empathy is put to the test.
Empathy also compels us to listen attentively to the voices of those who are often silenced or ignored. It fosters a commitment to equity and fairness, driving us to confront systemic injustices and work towards creating a more just and inclusive society for all. Without empathy, social justice efforts risk becoming detached or superficial, lacking the genuine understanding necessary to effect meaningful change.
As a community, let us commit ourselves to the practice of empathy in all aspects of our lives. Let us strive to cultivate empathy in our relationships, our conversations, and our actions, both within our faith community and in the broader world. Let us seek to understand before seeking to be understood, to listen before speaking, and to approach one another with gentleness, compassion, and respect.
Wild Blessings,
Rev. Matthew Hogue-Smith, Senior Minister
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