Well that was fun.

Graduation at last!

This was actually back in May. But like so many things, it doesn't exist until you get the photos back... this one from Starr King's photographer.



The school allows each graduate to speak for two minutes.
Here's what I said at graduation:
------
"Spirit of Life, Come unto Me
Sing in my heart all the stirrings of compassion."

My name is Charlie, I'm just finishing up a ministerial internship in New Orleans, LA,

And I have one bit of learning I would like to share with those who are going to be ministering, where ever that may be...

And this learning has to do with compassion.

Now "Compassion for" is the usual form of compassion-- helping the poor, feeding the hungry.

But Starr King introduced us to a different paradigm, "Compassion WITH"-- the idea of being an ally. Companioning others on THEIR journey. COMPASSION WITH is an important tool for social change.

And when I took the job in New Orleans, I thought I would be present for the congregations, in a compassionate way.

What I did not realize was that there is a third compassion--
"Compassion OF"-- Being a part of a compassionate community.

THOSE WHO COME TO WORK with those in southern Louisiana learn it...

Even in OUR struggle there is joy.
Even in disaster,
YES Tears!
But also dreams,
and music,
and deliciousness.

The Compassion With keeps us separate.

Ministry, as I see it NOW, is all about compassion OF.

I AM Singing in MY heart, all the stirrings OF COMPASSION.