Faith Matters

Dear St Francis Xavier Families,

Next week is Laudato Si Week.

Laudato Si was an encyclical created by Pope Francis in 2015 urging the people of the world to take action and address the ecological crisis and the devastating affect it is having on humans and the planet.  Within the encyclical he asks us to make the necessary changes in our lives in order to take care of, respect and value our ‘common home.’ The encyclical has been highly regarded by people from all walks of life including scientists, politicians and those of other faith denominations.

Laudato Si coincides with our 'Sustainability' topic this term and we intend to acknowledge it in a variety of ways.

The Year 6 Faith in Action team is organising break time activities such as a Nature Scavenger Hunt, meditation and nature walk. Andrew Chinn, one of our favourite singer/songwriters is coming into school on Thursday to facilitate workshops with our classes which will culminate in an afternoon concert.

Our house names, War-reen, Kardinia, Kurrong and Beek which are all Bunurong aboriginal names were partially inspired by the opening lines of Laudato Si which were taken from St Francis of Assisi's 'Canticle of the Creatures' in which St Francis praises God by meditating on the goodness of the sun, earth, water and other natural forces. This passage is a reminder of how people of faith should not only respect the Earth but also praise and honor God through their engagement with creation.

The Year 3/4 classes have been asked to promote Laudato Si Week throughout the school and have created a variety of advertising materials including, announcements, posters and prayers.

Warmest wishes and blessings to you all.

Marion