Building Purposeful Connections: A Reflection for Reconciliation Week
While reading recently, I came across an article that immediately reminded me of the Cultural and Identity workshop from Australians Together. As we prepare for Reconciliation Week, it’s a good time to reflect: how, as Lutheran Education, are we living out the attributes of Free to Flourish of being relational, compassionate, purposeful, and adventurous?
Roberta Benjamin-Edwards, an educator with 57 years of experience in the US, puts it beautifully:
"I have unearthed many truths, but none as profound as the transformative power of intentional community building within the classroom. An uplifting learning community is a tapestry woven from the delicate threads of human connection."
In the article she shares simple but powerful community-building activities that create inclusive, compassionate spaces at any age.
As leaders, creating these purposeful connections is part of how we restore hope, heal relationships, and help others flourish.
As we move into Reconciliation Week, let’s keep asking ourselves — how are we intentionally building a community where all can be Free to Flourish?
