Chaplaincy

Swimming and Saving

Last week was definitely the week for swimming at Calrossy!  Two Swimming Carnivals on Tuesday (at least one of which was convincingly won by Nicholls House); plus the Junior School Carnival on Friday.  They’re always great days on our School calendar, with lots of keen participation and House spirit (enhanced by the colourful outfits worn by so many participants – both male and female!). Amid the serious competitors, of course, there are those who just swim for the fun of it (and for points for their House!).

However, for anyone who’s involved in competitive swimming for any length of time, you’ll know that carnivals or meets are just one part of the commitment that’s needed.  Early morning training (VERY early, often!); hours and hours in the pool and gym; coping with injuries…those things represent the less attractive side of it.  On the other hand, there are positives in the team spirit and camaraderie that comes from being part of a club; not to mention the challenge and satisfaction of achieving personal bests – and more!

An ability to swim is something that we can take for granted – especially in Australia, where a majority have grown up almost living in the water (in the summer months, at least!).  However, like many other abilities, you really only appreciate the importance of a person being able to swim, when you yourself CAN’T – and you’re in deep water (something that’s sadly been a common occurrence during this summer).  What happens then?  You look for someone who CAN swim, to rescue you – to do for you, what you can’t do for yourself.

It’s not unlike figuring out if you and I are good enough for God.  The Bible tells us clearly that we can’t achieve that by our own efforts – all of us fall short of God’s perfection.  But, after stating that in Romans 3:23, in the very next sentence the Bible gives us hope in telling us that there is a Rescuer, Jesus – and we need Him to make us what we can’t make ourselves: forgiven people with a right standing before God. It’s something that we can never get for ourselves – no matter how much “training” of any kind we might do!

2022 CHRISTMAS CAROLS FUNDRAISING!

At the end of last year, in our Whole School Carols Service on 6th December, we took up a collection to support the Anglicare Flood Disaster Appeal – providing support from those in our State, especially on the North Coast and in the Central West, devastated by last year’s massive floods.

Thank you so much for your generosity on that occasion, and your support of those in desperate need! I’m delighted to report to you that the amount raised from the Carols Service was $1738.05.  That’s a HUGE amount, and a great display of the gratitude and compassion that categorises Calrossy in so many ways.  This amount has been passed on to Anglicare, to support and help people as they rebuild their lives and livelihoods after what they’ve gone through.

We look forward to many more opportunities to provide for those in need, in the School events and activities of 2023!

Mark Rundle

Calrossy Anglican School Chaplain