Ongoing Impact of COVID

The past two and a half years of COVID has taken a toll on the wellbeing of people around the world.

When humans perceive a threat, our instincts prompt us to protect ourselves. We cannot fight or flee from a pandemic - or climate change or the war in the Ukraine, for that matter. People can be overwhelmed by the sense of threat they sense, from COVID, scenes of disaster on the news and other sources. Anxiety is now more commonplace, including in schools.

Some people have responded to the stresses of recent years by focusing on themselves and hardening themselves to others. Like an ostrich burying its head in the sand, selfishness may be chosen for self-protection, but it backfires.

What the World Needs Now is … Compassion

Compassion is better for us - and others - than self-absorption. On this, Jesus and a host of modern experts agree.

Compassion can be described as letting ourselves be touched by the vulnerability and suffering that is within ourselves and all beings. The full flowering of compassion also includes action: not only do we attune to the presence of suffering, we respond to it.(Tara Brach)

Humankind succeeded through its evolution due to community, not individuality. Today’s scholars recognise that our ability to foster collective support is crucial. For example, Forbes has recently published research-based advice that business leaders should practice compassion and empathy in order to succeed.

When we are good to others, it helps us too. Dr Laurie Santos is a psychology Professor who introduced the most popular course in Yale’s history, Psychology and the Good Life. She promotes helping others as a research-proven strategy to improve mental wellbeing and happiness. (article, podcast , video)

Self-Compassion

While compassion inspires us to bring goodness to others, self-compassion is also essential.

“Let go of who you think you should be in order to be who you are. Be imperfect and have compassion for yourself. Connection is the result of authenticity.” (Brené Brown)

Concealing our true selves and pretending everything is OK (when it’s not) are counter-productive. On the other hand, self-compassion enables us to accept our limitations, connect helpfully with others and sustain ourselves with the same kindness that we give others.

As Jesus said: “Love your neighbour as you love yourself.” (Mk 12:31)

Compassion is in KM’s DNA

Within Kildare Ministries, we continue the compassionate spirit of the Presentation and Brigidine Sisters. For example, Nano Nagle wrote:

If I could be of service in serving souls in any part of the world, I would gladly do all in my power.”

The Living Justice, Living Peace Charter guides us as we reflect:

What compassionate responses:

will relieve suffering and provide equity?
will have lasting impact?
are needed to heal, protect and sustain creation?
will make the marginalised visible and restore their dignity?

We make “God’s way” real through our compassion for others, especially the vulnerable, sustained by our mutual support and self-compassion.

Baton Changes

Erica Pegorer recently began treatment for an illness. Our thoughts and prayers are with Erica during this important time. We are deeply grateful that Jeff Burn has returned to Kildare Ministries, serving as Acting Executive Director for the remainder of 2022, during Erica’s absence. Welcome back and thank you, Jeff.

After Sr Louise Cleary was appointed as Brigidine Congregational Leader in March, three particularly busy months followed for her. Finally, at the KEM AGM last Thursday, she was able to step aside from her role as Chair of the Board.

Louise has led KEM with wisdom, strength and gentleness. She has graciously served, providing outstanding witness and skilled formation. The Board, Principals, schools and Executive Officers of KEM over the past three years recognise her outstanding contribution. We offer Louise a deep and heartfelt vote of thanks and offer our best wishes and prayerful support for her term as Congregation Leader.

KEM is very fortunate that two experienced Board Chairs have kindly agreed to resume leadership of the Board. We offer sincere thanks to Annette Broadfoot and Michael Doyle for generously agreeing to again lead the KEM Board, as Co-Chairs.

Peter Houlahan

Executive Officer

Kildare Education Ministries

Kildare Ministries Newsletter

Issue 4 · 22 Jun 2022

In this issue