Year 9 Ignite Program

Bendigo Interfaith Council Visit to Girton

Last Tuesday the Year 9 students hosted seven members of the Bendigo Interfaith Council (BIC) to talk about cultural diversity and the many different religions we have here in Bendigo. The BIC was formed by leaders of the local faith-based communities to increase the acceptance, harmony, and inclusion of religious differences in the community. It includes representatives from Christianity, Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, and Baha'i faiths.

On the day there were four faith communities represented - Baha'i, Buddhism, Christianity, and Judaism. By all accounts our Year 9 students enjoyed learning about the different faiths and were eager to ask questions. 

Please enjoy reading the students' perspectives:

On the 23rd of May 2023, The Year 9 students had the privilege to listen to some volunteers from the Bendigo Interfaith Council, a not-for-profit organisation from many different religions.  Some of these religions, such as Buddhism, Judaism, and Christianity, came and spoke to us. After the volunteers explained about their religions, students were able to ask any question they had for the volunteers, and there were many great questions that the volunteers answered in a very deep and meaningful way. Overall, the Bendigo Interfaith Council visit was a very successful and interesting incursion for the Year 9 students.

Fraser Pollock (9 Aherne)

Last week Year 9 Ignite was visited by the Bendigo Interfaith Council. We got to learn about different religions and faiths within the community, and there were some that we didn’t even know existed. It was interesting to see the perspectives of the different representatives of each religion and how they view it. A lot of misconceptions were corrected, and everyone was engaged and asking plenty of questions. Overall, it was a very informative and enjoyable experience. 

Sarah Crosby 9 Riley)

There was tension with the cohort before the visit, as to how it would unfold. However, as the session progressed, we became increasingly aware of the similarities between the religions. All of the representatives of the four religions spoke about being the best people we can be and treating people equally. They spoke of respect, unity,and the oneness of humanity. Ultimately, we learned that we are ‘all in this together’ as one human race. Despite our differences in beliefs and opinions, we all share core principles: love, respect and unity.

Vivek Vattakatuchery (9 Riley)