When Kids Lead the Way in Empathy: A Remarkable Week at Second Presbyterian Church
Earlier this summer, Second Presbyterian Church set out to help children grow in empathy. In addition to exploring what the Bible says about God’s heart for immigrants, they invited guest speakers and created activities to help kids imagine life in someone else’s shoes. The results were remarkable—one boy even gave up his dream trip to Disney World to help others.
Empathy speaks fluently in every age
In her book Reclaiming Conversation in a Digital Age, Sherry Turkle writes:
“We face a crisis of empathy. Our devices and online lives have left us less able to talk to one another, listen, and understand. Face-to-face conversation is the most human—and humanizing—thing we do.”
This week of vacation bible school (VBS) proved her point: meaningful experiences can bring empathy to life in a way no screen ever could. Helping us to grow in empathy.
Walking in someone else’s shoes
Each day, students considered what it might be like to leave behind everything they knew.
One day, they received instructions for a task, but the instructions were only in Arabic. Confused and frustrated, they experienced a small taste of what it is like to navigate a new country without knowing the language. Another day, they listed their most treasured belongings and then imagined they had to flee with only a backpack. What would fit? What would have to stay behind?
During that exercise, one child grew anxious. The idea of losing everything felt real. A volunteer gently reassured him:
“This is just an exercise, but for millions of kids around the world, this is real.”
Stories that change us
That reality became even more vivid through the stories of two women, Iryna and Maria. Iryna shared about fleeing Ukraine when war broke out, leaving behind not only her country but also her parents, who could not come. She spoke with love about her homeland—its culture, people, and traditions—and why it was so hard to leave. Maria told the children about growing up in Venezuela and the instability that forced her to go. When a child asked what the hardest part was, Maria answered simply, “Not being with my family.”
Both women were welcomed and supported by World Relief when they arrived in Memphis. Through language classes, job support, and friendship, they rebuilt their lives. Today, they help others who are new to the city, offering the same kind of welcome they received.
Small hearts, big compassion
The children responded with curiosity and generosity. They asked thoughtful questions. They pictured themselves in someone else’s story. They gave generously. One boy, who had been saving for a trip to Disney World, decided instead to give his savings to help refugees.
But the lessons didn’t stay in the church building. Parents shared how their kids came home explaining what a refugee is, sparking meaningful dinner-table conversations about how their families could help.
A Challenge for All of Us
In Reclaiming Conversation, Turkle addresses how technology can diminish empathy in young people—and in adults. Her research shows the value of meaningful, face-to-face interactions. This week of VBS proved the point: sometimes the best way to grow in empathy is through a shared experience.
If you have never met a refugee or heard their story, maybe it is time for you to have that experience too.
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