Resources for Compassion

We believe that Jesus’ command to love God and our neighbors needs to guide everything we do as we form communities of grace, welcome, service and justice. (Luke 10:25-37)

Discussion Guide (PDF)
Devotion Video 1 – Prs. Marilyn Miller & Bill Beyer (download or stream)
Devotion Video 2 – Hephatha, Milwaukee (download or stream)
Devotion Video 3 – Ascension, Waukesha (download or stream)
Devotion Video 4 – Drs. Rose Dotson and Joyce Caldwell (download or stream)

“Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life” by Karen Armstrong: Provides practical steps to cultivate compassion in daily life.
“Tattoos on the Heart” by Fr. Gregory Boyle: Shares stories of redemption through boundless compassion.
“Love Without Limits” by Dr. Jacqueline Bussie: Challenges readers to embrace radical compassion.
“See Me, Believe Me: A Guide to Deepen Allyship With Congregational Leaders of Color” by Rev. Dr. Yolanda Denson-Byers: Read by Synod staff who found it to be meaningful.
“I Never Thought of It That Way” by Mónica Guzmán: Encourages compassionate dialogue across differences.
“Waking Up White” by Debby Irving: Explores racial identity, privilege, and the need for compassionate engagement in racial justice.
“No Future Without Forgiveness” by Desmond Tutu: Examines compassion through reconciliation and justice.
“The Book of Forgiving” by Desmond & Mpho Tutu: A guide to forgiveness as an act of compassion.

ELCA Coaching Media: Offers coaching and leadership discussions centered on compassionate ministry.
Everything Happens with Kate Bowler: Explores suffering, resilience, and the role of compassion.
Love Period with Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis: Focuses on radical love and inclusion, encouraging active compassion.
On Being with Krista Tippett: Explores deep questions of meaning, faith, and ethics, fostering understanding and compassion.
The Science of Happiness (The Contagious Power of Compassion): Offers research-based strategies on kindness and well-being, emphasizing the role of compassion.
Three Sides Podcast (Living Lutheran): ELCA-affiliated, sharing stories of compassion, justice, and faith.
Unlocking Us with Brené Brown: Discusses vulnerability, empathy, and courageous compassion.

The Compassion of Jesus – Megan Marshman: Reflects on Jesus’ miracles and His model of compassion.
The Heart of Compassion – Pr. Javon Ruff: Encourages embodying Christ’s love through compassion.
Showing Compassion Towards Others – Pr. Josh Walters: Highlights lessons on compassion from Jesus’ miracles.

Dr. Kate Bowler: Shares personal experiences on suffering, grace, and compassion.
Fr. Gregory Boyle: Advocates for compassion through work with marginalized communities.
Brené Brown: Researches vulnerability, empathy, and courage in leadership.
Dr. Jacqueline Bussie: Promotes radical love and inclusion.
Deacon Tammy Devine: ELCA deacon focused on health, healing, and community compassion.
Janelle Scales: Explores intersectionality and radical compassion in justice work.

Resources for Compassion

2025 Synod Assembly Devotions

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