Mission and Identity

Catholic Social Teaching – in Action

Pope Francis once said, ‘An authentic faith always implies a deep desire to change the world’.

This term, students in Year 12 have been exploring the principles of Catholic Social Teaching and examining how these values can be applied to real-world issues. Through research, discussion and reflection, students considered the challenges facing communities both locally and globally and identified practical ways to respond with compassion, justice and hope.

In this task, students worked collaboratively, investigating issues connected to Dignity of the Human Person, the Common Good, Solidarity, and Stewardship of Creation. They then selected a charity that was a focus for their learning and advocacy, raising awareness about the important work undertaken by the organisation and encouraging others to consider how they can contribute to positive change.

This project challenged students to move beyond learning about social justice to actively living it. By sharing information, promoting understanding and supporting a cause they believe in, students demonstrated that even small actions can make a meaningful difference. They raised money for Adelaide charities such as Puddle Jumpers, Treasure Boxes and Catherine House, while also raising awareness for organisations such as Beyond Blue.

Through his Apostolic Exhortation, Dilexi te, Pope Leo XIV reminds us, “Through your work, your efforts to change unjust social structures or your simple, heartfelt gesture of closeness and support, the poor will come to realise that Jesus’ words are addressed personally to each of them: ‘I have loved you'.” This message resonated strongly with students as they discovered the power of working together in service of others, developing a deeper understanding that faith is not only something we believe, but something we live through our actions.

Martina O’Connell 

Assistant Principal: Mission and Identity