It was also an opportunity to express one of the Chaplaincy and spiritual life themes for this year: Community and Belonging. St. Francis of Assisi (1181/8 to 1226 C.E.) has held a special place at Seabury for many years: the annual Philosophy and Religion Award is given in St. Francis's name. This year, Francis is joined by St. Clare of Assisi (1194 to 1253 C.E.) as informal patrons—ancestors who can inspire and guide us on our journey. Clare and Francis offer the Seabury Hall community reminders and models of simplicity, patience, and a willingness to cross boundaries of social norms and constructs to ensure that everyone feels seen and known.

In 2018 on World Communications Day, Pope Francis adapted a well known prayer attributed to St. Francis of Assisi (1181/82 to 1226 C.E.). We have often concluded Assembly Reflections with a portion of this prayer. This prayer seems fitting in 2024 as we ground ourselves in a foundation of wisdom, truth, aloha, and justice-seeking. Pope Francis's adaption offers us a new way of thinking how we can live together, for ourselves, our school, and our world, in relationships that are pono, right, and good. The prayer, slightly modified with inclusive language, is designed to be used as a call and response, one person leading, and all responding with the words in bold type.

Lord make us instruments of peace.
Help us to recognize that not all communication builds communion.
Help us to remove the venom from our judgements.
Help us to speak about others as our beloved siblings.
As God is faithful and trustworthy,
may we plant seeds of goodness for the world:

Where there is shouting,
let us practice listening;
Where there is confusion,
let us inspire harmony;
Where there is ambiguity,
let us bring clarity;
Where there is exclusion,
let us offer solidarity;
Where there is sensationalism,
let us use sobriety;
Where there is superficiality,
let us raise real questions;
Where there is prejudice,
let us awaken trust;
Where there is hostility,
let us bring respect;
Where there is falsehood,
let us bring truth.

Together, or alone, this intention may be powerful in turning our hearts and minds to peace, compassion, and wisdom-seeking through our learning and leadership in the world. Indeed, may this prayer, may this intention, be yours and mine, as we—together—bind love to love, truth to truth, justice to justice: that all may know that they belong. And that they are—we are—beautiful; inside and out.

Me ka hau'oli,

Chris+
The Rev. Christopher Golding
School Chaplain