Developing empathy leads to top collection for missions

Our Lady of Good Counsel School in Moorestown earned the highest per capita collection for the Missionary Childhood Association this year. Principal Cynthia Smith said the school has invited missionaries to visit for two years to help students understand the lives of children in other countries.

The collection was part of diocesan activities marking the 100th anniversary of World Mission Sunday, which was celebrated worldwide on Oct. 20. Student Mission Leader Caroline Bigos said students develop empathy by imagining the experiences of others and learn compassion by watching their teachers help people.

In other diocesan results, Nativity Parish in Fair Haven received first place for collections among parish religious education programs. Director Angela McAvoy said students at the parish collect money during a summer intensive program rather than during the school year.