Charter for Compassion

Reflections on Compassion for Communities of Faith

The Charter for Compassion will be introduced to the world community on November 12, 2009. Leaders of communities of faith are invited to speak to the faithful on November 13-15, urging them to restore the principles of compassion to the heart of their faith and their lives.

Possible Points of Emphasis

Compassion is most clearly and simply expressed in the Golden Rule which can be read as both “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” and “Do not treat others as you would not like to be treated yourself.”

A commitment to compassion calls us to live in the world conscious of all with whom we share the Earth and Earth’s bounty and resources.

Compassion insists that, in recognition of our common humanity, we treat every creature with justice, equality, and respect.

The Charter for Compassion calls all religions to mutual respect of one another and insists that all compassionate interpretation of scripture denies hatred and violence.

Compassion calls us to a courageous life in which risks are joyously taken on behalf of a world in which all people must be fed and housed and clothed and freed.

Compassion is not only a matter of the heart, but a mindful commitment to engage one’s whole self in the alleviation of suffering.

The call to compassion is addressed to religious bodies, to governments, to businesses — yes, even to the military. All whose power and decision-making affects others need to honor the sanctity and safety of all.

Compassion can be a dynamic force in protecting the Earth and its generations yet to be born.

Compassion calls us out of our narrow self-centered selves, saves us from wasteful self-involvement, and opens us to the well-being offered to those who share themselves, their resources, and their love with all of humanity.




source - http://charterforcompassion.org/the-charter