Sr. Martha Ann Kirk, Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, brought our briefing this Thursday @TheIntersection. Come and hear about efforts…
Local CompassionateSA and CompassionateUSA, Compassionate Colleges and Universities, Young San Antonians going to the annual Nobel Peace Laureates Summit in Rome!
The meeting focused on updates and initiatives related to compassion and peace in San Antonio, especially in light of the upcoming 25th anniversary of 9/11. Ann, Martha, and Eric discussed various community events, including memorials, conferences, and youth engagement efforts. Martha highlighted the historical roots of compassion in San Antonio, emphasizing community service and the role of young people in global initiatives. Eric shared updates on the Compassionate Alamo project, the San Antonio Peace Center, and upcoming programs to integrate peace and compassion into educational curricula. The group also discussed the Global Youth Conference and the opportunity for young people to attend the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates in Rome. Participants expressed gratitude for the ongoing work and encouraged continued involvement in building a compassionate community.
Peace Laureates Event Announcement
The meeting began with Martha highlighting the work of University of the Incarnate Word students, including Estrella Needham’s research on malnutrition in Guatemala and a graduate’s work with a nonprofit in a poor area of Guatemala. Ann then introduced the main topic, noting the timing of the meeting on September 10th, the day before the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Ann announced an upcoming event at 10 AM at San Antonio Mennonite Church, where 18 San Antonio Peace Laureates will speak about community concerns and invite attendees to bring about peace and compassion.
Upcoming Community Events Announcement
The meeting focused on upcoming events and announcements. Peter announced the San Antonio 9-11 Memorial Commemoration at New Life Christian Center at 9 a.m., featuring Mayor Ortiz-Jones, Councilman Edward Munguia, and Justice Lori Brissett, with a theme of mental health resiliency and compassion. Doug invited everyone to the 20th annual NAMI Walks at Morgan’s Wonderland on September 26th at 8 a.m., and Kendra announced a march for freedom and justice on October 3rd starting at Sam Houston High School at 9 a.m., led by Commissioner Calvert. Rich also mentioned a community partner welcoming event at the Cypress Community Campus Center at Northwest Vista College at 4:30 p.m.
San Antonio’s Compassionate Heritage Discussion
Martha discussed the compassionate roots of San Antonio, highlighting how the original people and Spanish missions practiced sharing and collaboration, including their support for the American Revolution. She encouraged attendees to consider how they can contribute to making San Antonio a city known for compassion, particularly in light of the 250th anniversary of the United States. Martha invited participants to share in the chat how they are developing their compassion muscle and participating in compassionate city efforts.
Alamo Community Colleges Peace Initiatives
Dr. discussed recent initiatives at Alamo Community Colleges District, including the fourth annual Community Healing Circle Institute and the launch of the Compassionate Alamo project to integrate compassion into daily work practices. They announced plans for a new social media campaign in fall 2026 and virtual convenings with service learning departments across Texas. Dr. also revealed the formation of the San Antonio Peace Center Advisory Council and the upcoming Peace Fellow program starting in spring 2027, which will involve faculty developing curriculum incorporating peace and compassion learning. The event included details about International Peace Week activities on September 21-24 and the upcoming Blessing of the Peacemakers event on January 28, 2027.
Global Compassionate Colleges Initiative
Martha announced an invitation to coordinate the Global Compassionate Colleges and Universities Initiative, which aims to promote compassion in educational institutions and community service. She highlighted upcoming opportunities, including the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates in Rome in December, where 50 young people with high potential can attend, including students aged 15-35. Martha also mentioned the importance of creating inclusive environments on campuses and encouraged attendees to explore resources on the Charter for Compassion website, including information about the Thrive Democracy Conference.
Nobel Peace Summit Student Participation
The group discussed an upcoming Nobel Peace Laureate Summit in Rome from December 1-4, where Martha announced she would be bringing high school students as part of a chaperoned group. Martha explained that while the event typically targets 18-35 year olds, high school students are welcome with proper supervision, and there is no registration charge for accompanying the young participants. The discussion included reflections on peace work and compassion, with Ann sharing her commitment to peace building over the past 25 years, and Kendra expressing gratitude for the group’s inspiring work.
Environmental and Community Concerns Discussion
Ann discussed upcoming topics about earth, land, and community concerns related to war and national parks, mentioning that recordings of these meetings are available online. Martha shared information about the Headwaters at Incarnate Word and invited people to visit the 53 area nature sanctuary. The conversation ended with discussions about the Charter for Compassion and resources for further learning, with participants planning to meet again at the San Antonio Mennonite Church.