Compassionate Gathering

I am human because you are human; if you are dehumanized, I am dehumanized.

--Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Chair of South African Truth and

Reconciliation Commission

Our Mission

Compassionate Gathering recognizes that the whole community is hurt by child abuse, and other forms of emotional and physical trauma and that the whole community needs to be part of the healing process. We heal through supporting each person through the healing process, through listening to everyone’s stories compassionately in a caring community, and through apologizing for the wrongs committed.

We have a special interest in clergy abuse, but we welcome anyone abused or traumatized by individuals or society to come and share their stories of pain with us. When we listen to the wounded as often as needed, as long as needed, they begin the journey from victim to survivor.

Our Core Principles

Every Person is Sacred

Coming Together in Community is a Sacred Act

Apology is a Sacred Gift

Healing is a Sacred Journey