Upcoming Youth Curriculum
November 1 — What It Means to Be Empathetic
Value: Presence & Authentic Connection
Empathy begins with how we show up for others. Youth will explore the difference between listening to respond and being fully present with someone. They’ll discover how simple choices—pausing, breathing, listening without judgment, and resisting the urge to fix everything—can make room for genuine connection.
November 8 — Understanding with Empathy: Listening to What Isn’t Said
Value: Deep Listening & Compassion
Sometimes the most important parts of a conversation go beyond words. Youth will practice paying attention to feelings, body language, and what someone may be struggling to express. They’ll explore how listening without interrupting or rushing to offer advice can help others feel seen, heard, and understood.
November 15 — Empathic Learning: A Gift of Life
Value: Self-Awareness & Growth
Every person we meet has something to teach us. Youth will explore how different experiences and perspectives can expand their understanding of themselves and the world. By approaching conversations with curiosity instead of judgment, they’ll discover how empathy helps us learn, grow, and recognize our shared humanity.
November 22 — Empathy as an Expression of Gratitude
Value: Gratitude & Compassionate Connection
Even challenging interactions can reveal something valuable about ourselves and others. Youth will consider how moments of misunderstanding, discomfort, or vulnerability can become opportunities for learning and compassion. They’ll practice finding gratitude in everyday encounters and recognizing the ways our relationships invite us to grow in love.
November 29 — Embodying Empathy Every Day
Value: Oneness & Everyday Compassion
Empathy becomes a spiritual practice when we bring it into our everyday choices. Youth will bring together what they’ve explored throughout the month and consider how kindness, thoughtful listening, patience, and nonjudgmental understanding can shape their relationships and communities. On this fifth Sunday, youth and teens will have an opportunity to share their empathy journey through a personal story, a lesson learned, a creative reflection, or one small action they want to practice moving forward. Together, we’ll celebrate how listening with open hearts, honoring one another’s experiences, and practicing compassion help create a world where everyone belongs.