Pastoral Care News

Amidst the craziness that is the world we currently live in; it is reassuring to witness such acts of kindness and generosity within our own Marian community. It is the little things that remind us that we are truly blessed. 

Students and staff have been donating items which collectively, will be assembled in kits for those in need as part of this term’s “I CARE KITS” activity. Every item donated shall be given to St Vincent de Paul and LCN (auspicing Youth Links and the Women’s Refuge). The response has been phenomenal and is a reflection of us putting our faith into action. Each and every item; however small is appreciated. Special mention must go to Mr Keady and his home room 9:6 who have donated an incredible amount of goods. This enthusiasm has been driven by the students; particularly Emma, Jen and Aiyla and all are to be congratulated for the amazing contribution to the activity.

There are still 2 weeks of collecting left before we assemble the kits. Final day Fri 4th Sept

This week we hosted our second and final cook for the term for CAREVAN. Once again, staff and students donated their time to be part of this great community project. Numbers are continuing to grow and we are looking at options for when we are next rostered so we can utilise all our volunteers to their full capacity.

Knitting continues to be popular and it is heart warming to see students continuing this activity during their breaks throughout the school grounds and not just limited to Wednesday’s group meeting. We have had a number of parents who would love to volunteer and be involved however like all things in “2020” COVID 19 and regulations means that we can not have people onsite; unfortunately. We are however grateful for the offer of assistance.

Also, this week I was completely taken by surprised and in awe of the generosity of a parent who purchased new uniform items but donated them to me, to be given as a gift to any student experiencing financial hardship or personal crisis. 

This act of kindness was quite simply the highlight of my week (perhaps even the year); a simple thank you seems inadequate. I have been inspired however to reflect on each day and identify the many things that I am grateful for PLUS strive to perform one random act of kindness each day. I am confident I will have more success at these goals than the health and fitness goals I set for myself during social isolation/ lock down.

Finally, I would like to thank all our wonderful volunteers who contribute or assist in any way. The skills, experiences and attitudes developed here at school will stay with our young people as they journey through life. And it is hoped that wherever their pathway leads them; they will always have the internal desire to help those less fortunate, those experiencing hardship and a desire to make the world a more just place for all.

Stay warm, stay safe.

Sue Hone

Pastoral Care