Faith & Mission Report

“I’m only a child, yet I know if all the money spent on wars was spent on ending poverty and finding environmental answers, what a wonderful place this Earth would be…” Severin Cullis-Suzuki, aged 12, Earth Summit, Rio de Janeiro, 1992

At a meeting last week we were looking at the topic of caring for our world through the lense of Pope Francis and Ladauto Si. It was interesting that a statement made by a 12 year old in 1992 is still so pertinent today, especially with all of our learnings. During this month we encourage our students to consider the Catholic Social Teachings, particularly the CARE FOR OUR COMMON HOME and HUMAN DIGNITY as the days draw out to be longer and colder.

Next week we will launch our St Vincent De Paul Winter appeal.   We will be asking our students to donate tins of food (soup, stew, baked beans, spaghetti etc) or a small gift voucher from the local supermarkets, so these can be donated to our local St Vincent de Paul organisation to feed those in need in our community. The number of families asking for assistance has risen dramatically since the Covid pandemic started, and with the cost of living increases, is expected to be higher than average again this year.

The local St Vinnies has asked that we do not donate tins of chickpeas, broad beans etc, as these do not get used and will only create a waste problem.

The Monivae community was once again joined by St Mary’s Primary school in a liturgy, this time to celebrated Catholic Education Week. This year’s theme was “Let the words you speak always be full of grace”.

With a full venue of students, and some enthusiastic singing from the St Mary’s students, it was a great celebration, reminding us of the importance of Catholic Education in our community.

Our point of difference to other schools is our Catholic Social Teaching and Gospel Values. We can support the same causes as our non-Catholic counterparts, including “Do it for Dolly Day” and “IDAHOBIT Day”, but the reasons for doing so go beyond just “doing the right thing”. Jesus teaches us to live a life full of LOVE, love for all and everything. 

This love for all will once again be demonstrated when we also spend time next week recognising Reconciliation Week. This starts with National Sorry Day and runs up to the anniversary of recognising both the 1967 Referendum and the Mabo High Court decision.

Our Social Justice student group will be educating our student body throughout the week.

Upcoming events: 

• Reconciliation Week
• Sacred Heart Day Celebrations

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be everywhere loved.

Mr. Danny Franc

Director of Faith and Mission