Partner & Community Events
To further Compassionate Houston's collaboration with local partner organizations, the Charter for Compassion, and our larger friend network of compassionate artists and organizations, we are sharing a variety of events highlighting our commitment to creating a compassionate city through education, innovation, collaboration, and advocacy. Enjoy inspiring virtual programs and in-person events. Scroll down to the bottom of the page for a multitude of ongoing practice groups. You can also check the Charter for Compassion and our Partners’ websites for more happenings.
Non-Violent Communication Community Gathering
The Power of Compassion
Saturday, January 3, 2026 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM CT
The Power of Compassion’s community leaders are inviting you opening the doors once again to an afternoon of connection, curiosity, and the kind of gentle presence that makes community feel like a living, breathing thing. Whether you joined us last time or you’re stepping in for the first time, you’re welcome as you are. Expect good conversation, shared practice, a few laughs, and a space where everyone gets to exhale. Bring a friend, bring a feeling, or just bring yourself — we’d love to see you there.
For more information or to register, click here.
Midweek at Unity: White Stone Ceremony
Unity of Houston
Wednesday, January 7, 2026, 7:00-8:00 PM
In the ritual of the White Stone, we meditate and listen deeply for the creative energy rising within. We visualize wiping the slate clean as we begin the new year. And we receive guidance for realizing a new name or a new word for the path ahead. The result is greater freedom and an expanded awareness of possibilities.
For more information or to register, click here.
Grounds for Dialogue 2nd Edition
Bringing Houston Together
Wednesday, January 14, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM at IM Houston
Grounds for Dialogue, launched during Compassion Week 2025, is part of an ongoing effort to help Houstonians reconnect with one another and develop the skills needed for more constructive personal and civic conversations. Co-hosted by Houston City Council Member Julian Ramirez, his Chief of Staff Leah Wolfthal and Houston City Council Member Sallie Alcorn, in collaboration with Braver Angels and IM Houston. The evening is not about debate or persuasion, but about slowing down, listening deeply, being heard, and reconnecting through curiosity and shared values.
You can find more details and > register here.
2026 MLK Day Observance: Speeches & Gospels
rothko chapel
Monday, January 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3: 00 PM, 5:00 PM
In honor of MLK Day each year, the Rothko Chapel plays critically influential speeches from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life throughout the day. Listen to the quiet of the Chapel resonate with MLK’s voice accompanied by local gospel choirs inspired by selected speeches.
In-person, free drop-in event - no registration required.
UN World Interfaith Harmony Week - Houston
IM houston
Sunday, February 1: Kickoff Dinner Dialogue
Thursday, February 5: Service Projects facilitated by Volunteer Houston
Friday, February 6 - Sunday, February 8 : Weekend of Welcome
IM Houston is honored to host the UN World Interfaith Harmony Week – Houston from February 1-8, 2026. This year’s theme is “AWE – Art of Welcoming Everyone! Building Harmony through Hospitality.” Join us for a dinner dialogue and fellowship at multiple houses of worship across Greater Houston/Galveston County.
For more information or to register, click here.
One‑Day Insight Meditation Retreat
Insight Meditation Houston
Saturday, February 7, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
A full day of practice exploring the six sense bases, —sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, and thoughts—as pathways to greater awareness. Through guided meditation, mindful walking, intentional eating, and sensory-based practices, this retreat offers an accessible introduction to Insight Meditation for both new and experienced practitioners. Led by Guiding Teacher Travis Hicks, certified by the Greater Good Science Center as Mindfulness Meditation Teacher, the day provides a supportive space to deepen mindfulness and discover how every moment can become part of the path.
Please bring a brown‑bag lunch and any cushions or shawls you prefer for practice. Address: 4949 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 (Covenant Church, Building B, Ground Floor)
For retreat details or to register, click here.
Ongoing Partner Practice Groups
Join us as we collaborate with our partners to explore a variety of compassion-based practices, engage in acts of service, develop community, and share the challenges and celebrations that occur when we apply the practice in our daily lives. Whether through mindful presence or meaningful action, each pathway invites us to deepen connection and cultivate compassion across our communities. Please click on any image below for details on the applicable program. Check our partner’s websites for updates on in-person versus virtual attendance.
