Chaplain's Spot

“Peace’

‘How’s the serenity. So much serenity’ – name that movie – yes, it’s ‘The Castle’, one of Australia’s iconic movies. Another of its’ classic quotes is ‘Tell him he’s dreamin;’.

Serenity is peace. There are numerous perspectives on what peace is. Here are some: 

Absence of Conflict: Peace is often understood as the opposite of war or violent conflict, both on a large scale (international relations) and within smaller communities or families. 

Harmony and Cooperation: It also implies positive relationships, mutual respect, and cooperation between individuals or groups. 

Freedom from Fear and Anxiety: Peace can be a state of security and freedom from fear or worry, both for individuals and for communities. 

Tranquility and Calmness: Peace can refer to a state of quietude and inner peace, a sense of calm and serenity. 

Individual Peace: This can refer to personal well-being, emotional stability, and freedom from internal conflict. 

Social Peace: This can refer to the absence of conflict and violence within a community or society, as well as the presence of justice and social stability. 

Political Peace: This can refer to the absence of war or other forms of organized violence between nations or political entities. 

Spiritual Peace: Some perspectives link peace to spiritual enlightenment, inner harmony, and a connection to something larger than oneself. 

Peace is a multifaceted concept that can be understood at different levels, from the individual to the global, and it encompasses both the absence of conflict and the presence of positive relationships and well-being. 

One of my favourite quotes is part of what is called ‘The Serenity Prayer’. When I refer to it, I usually say, ‘whether you believe in God or not, this is an important concept’. It is used by Alcoholics Anonymous, to assist those who want to break free from alcohol addiction. 

There are many things we cannot change in life. These include world conflicts, the weather, other people’s actions or words, and our history. However, there are things over which we do have control, such as our response to the above things. 

We will certainly find peace elusive if we take to heart every tragic situation around us and across the globe. Often when I am meeting with a student, we consider what may be just one thing they may be able to do in their situation, to take back some element of control.  

Inner peace is what is most needed, even amidst a crazy world, near or far. As we focus on who or what is before us, and what we can do to empower and support them, then we will be more able to have inner peace. 

There have always been world conflicts, and natural disasters. For us to live our lives to our full potential, we need to find that which will enable us to retain a resilient spirit. For me it is my faith. Also, music and exercise help me to de-stress and find peace, as well as time with our family. 

- Peace to you all - 

Community wellbeing:  

Toast Tuesday: This free breakfast program runs before school in the SPC, open to all. Woolies Eastland helps support this weekly program with our toast spreads.

Baker Delight goods: We are thankful to Bakers Delight Heathmont, for their generous provision of loaves for Toast Tuesday. If your family would appreciate regular bread or rolls, please email me below, or see me at school. 

Here is the link for our TT roster for Term 3, if you would like to help. volunteersignup.org/3CFBJ

Non-perishable items: We have had some food items donated by one of our families. Come and see us at Toast Tuesday to see if they would be helpful for your family. 

Uniforms: Thankyou to families who have donated no-longer-needed items back to our school community. It makes a tremendous difference to many families, to be able to access uniform items in good condition for gold coins. Come and check us out on Tuesdays if you need any items.

Contact: Feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss anything about the above, or anything affecting your family. I am able to meet with students once, and for any further contact we ask parents/guardians to sign a Consent Form for an ongoing connection.  

Alan Silverwood: Chaplain - Pastoral care for our community. [Tuesday & Friday]

[alan.silverwood@education.vic.gov.au]

Supporting the School community in emotional, social, spiritual and practical wellbeing. 

Our Chaplaincy program is funded by the Federal Government’s ‘National Student Wellbeing Program’, the GRPS School Council and donations.