Seeking a Common Horizon
By Melanie Guste, RSCJ
We see education as a dialogue and partnership with people, many of whom have different beliefs and yet, all of whom draw from a universal system of values.” – Philosophy of Sacred Heart Education: Sophie’s Gift…Our Call to the Future
During recent RSCJ gatherings called “Gather | Discern | Create,” several honest questions surfaced: “What skills do we need to engage in conversations about polarizing topics? How do we address the concrete realities that divide or polarize us? Can we only have difficult conversations with people we know/feel safe with/love?”
A mindset of receptiveness and active listening, as highlighted in the May 12, 2025 issue of JPIC Connections, are important ways of bridging the divides. Other thought leaders such as those at the Notre Dame Deloitte Center for Ethical Leadership (NDDCEL) approach these challenges by highlighting the important role of the moral, ethical and value-based foundations that motivate humans. Sound familiar?
By engaging our moral and value-based foundations, researchers Matthew Feinberg and Robb Willer hypothesize that we can build a bridge between a widening chasm of perspectives and find some common ground. This is important social and cultural psychology that invites our attention to as we put “love into action” with those with whom we may not always agree.
Moral reframing is an “art,” and key to this practice is empathy, as the Notre Dame researchers see it. They offer some valuable pointers for those who hope to “bridge the moral empathy gap” and connect with diverse audiences. This research is not only helpful for personal growth and ministry but is useful for any leader who has to navigate the challenge of “taking a stand” on various controversial social issues.
Like the resonate tone of a foghorn in the distance, the words of Sophie’s Gift, the Society of the Sacred Heart Apostolic Priorities, Being Artisans of Hope in Our World Blessed and Broken World, and the Society’s General Chapter 2024 document summon our attention to the need for skillful navigation on our journey during these times. These graceful expressions of our deepest aspirations connect us with our deep purpose while echoing a continued call to discover and connect with others who have beliefs that differ from our own. Seeking and discovering that “universal system of values” is a powerful active charge to building trust, collaboration, and “becoming one” in a divided world. Moral reframing is one of those excellent navigational skills for the journey.
Questions for Reflection:
- How do others know that I am listening closely to learn of their favored moral foundations?
- How might I articulate my own moral foundations to others? How are these helpful or how might they get in the way of bridging the moral empathy gap?
For other resources on the RSCJ website, click here.
Photo by 姜 sir on Unsplash.