Some of the most meaningful lessons discovered in each SJ CPE cohort are those that the students share with one another. Through their unique perspectives, life experiences, and stories, they deepen each other's learning in ways that extend far beyond the classroom.
Attendees at this spring’s graduation witnessed firsthand how the strength and wisdom of their peers can inspire. The program's cover artwork reflected how closely the CPE cohort grew. Created by fellow graduate Thol, it portrayed each individual classmate as an animal, honoring their shared journey. The design was inspired in part by graduate Jerry, and his sharing about Kukatornon—“We Are One”—a central value in Liberian unity.
Jerry hails from Liberia, a small country on the west coast of Africa. Having grown up during the country's fourteen-year civil war, he carries stories of hardship, faith, and resilience that have shaped his worldview. During the program, Jerry shared the significance of Kukatornon and how it came to life within the CPE cohort:
“Kukatornon (which translates to "We Are One") is the heart of Liberian unity. Originating from the Kpelle people—the largest ethnic group in Liberia—this powerful philosophy has anchored the nation's sense of community for generations. At its core, Kukatornon ignites all people to deeply internalize one another's humanity: your joy is my joy, and your pain is my pain. This profound tradition binds Liberians at home and aboard, transforming the community from a mere collection of individuals into an unbreakable, shared spirit where no one suffers or succeeds alone.
In our CPE unit, we delightfully expressed this shared aspiration because there were no criminals, and no one was innocent. There was only a community of people breathing one breath. Learning together and looking after one another was our strength. During our CPE unit, our love grew, and our spirits ignited with care and a love for life, because in kukatornon, there is no label, there is acceptance.
From the very moment we first gathered in our CPE session, we felt the sacred manifestation of kukatornon that breathed life into our circle. During every session, kukatornon showed up and exposed us to our shared courage, struggles, and stories, and strengthened our collective desire for a universal chaplaincy that knows no boundaries of human experience and existence. It is for this reason, WE, the members of this unit, bound to our educator and to each other, carry this flame forward as we step into the profound journey of spiritual caregiving. Ikerte! (Let it be so!)”
Jerry’s reflection serves as a powerful reminder of what makes CPE such a transformative experience. While students gain knowledge and skills in spiritual care, they also learn from each other's courage, vulnerability, and lived experience. As this graduating cohort moves forward, the spirit of Kukatornon—"We Are One"—stands as a lasting testament to the community they created together and the compassionate care they will continue to bring to others.
