Ministry

A reflection of Easter

Every year, I travel back to my hometown over the Easter Weekend to celebrate and spend time with family. In my opinion, there is absolutely nothing better than waking up on Sunday morning, eating chocolate for breakfast, going to church with family and basking in the reality of Jesus’ resurrection. It’s a joyful day that grips me with hope and expectation.

But in our modernised, western world, I think we rush to sit in the victory and joy of life, without first grappling with the sorrow and hardship that may have led us there. It is easy to forget that we can only celebrate the resurrection of Jesus because he died in the first place. We wouldn’t be able to celebrate the victory of Easter Sunday, if Jesus wasn’t crucified on Good Friday.

This is the way of the gospel; that resurrection of life only comes through sorrow and death.

If we rush to joy and resurrection, we not only miss out on a huge part of Christ’s story, but we miss out on a huge part of ours. 

So, this is my encouragement to you; that you are not alone in your suffering. If you are feeling exhausted, burnt out, discouraged and hopeless, know that resurrection life is coming.

 Joy is on the horizon. 

Hope is not far away. 

Suffering and death is the doorway into resurrection.

Emma Beames

Ministry Assistant

Devotional Message from the Student Executive

Today at the student lead assembly, the Student Executive shared an important message at the Final Whole College Assembly for Term 1. Carefully chosen words that showed deep thought, awareness and encouragement. 

Their words convey an important message that needs to be shared with the entire Endeavour community.

'What do we know about Inclusivity? If you were to ask me, I believe its where everyone can feel welcomed and valued. Being able to create an environment that is accepting of everyone’s differences. No matter the background, culture, belief, abilities, and identity we can still act like civil people and value one another. 

Being in high school, it is important to promote inclusivity. No one appreciates being called names or being left behind all because you cannot find it in yourself to accept them for who they are. It is important to recognise and honour the unique identities of each and every student. We each have our stories, strengths and struggles and they make us who we are. When we embrace these differences, it opens up new perspectives for us that leads to personal growth and an enrichment of understanding within our school community. So, what can we do to promote inclusivity?  

One way could be by actively listening to others and seeking to understand their perspectives. We should be open to hearing different opinions and experiences and be willing to learn from them. 

Another way is by being intentional about the language we use. We should avoid using hurtful or offensive language and instead use words that uplift and encourage one another.

Throughout high school, we experience community, when we are with others who are similar to us. We form groups with other people without even being aware of it. Mention any sports team and you will almost immediately find out who supports that team and does not, Go Crows! Communities are good, they help us find a place where we feel comfortable to express ourselves, without being judged. Although, there is a problem when our communities and groups are exclusive, and do not support others.  

In John 13:34: “a new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.”

This means we love people in our friendship groups, our classes, our year levels, or whoever. Jesus spent time with everyone and never excluded anyone, he spent time with the unpopular, the sick and the sinners simply because he cared for them. God empowers us to love others, and if we enlarge our circle or treat other people with kindness, we are living in the image the Jesus’ set for us. If we show love to our neighbour, then just maybe, they will show love and compassion back to us.' 

Sienna Edwards, Fatima Hussein, Jesse Isaac, Isabella Marafioti, Cameron Preiss

2023 Student Executive