Social Justice
Mission Action Day
Mission Action Day Walkathon 2019
On Friday 16 August, St James College celebrated our annual Mission Action Day. This special day commenced with the Mission Action Day Liturgy. Given that the Feast of the Assumption occurred earlier in the week, it was fitting that we took some time to reflect that it was Mary who said yes to God without fear and with tremendous courage. To quote Pope Francis, “Mary gave of herself to others”. We listened to a reading from the Matthew’s Gospel which reminded us that part of being Christian is caring for others.
We then responded in prayer…
Christ has no hands but our hands;
To build a world where justice reigns…
Christ has no feet but ours;
To lead the oppressed to freedom…
Christ has no lips but our lips;
To tell the Good News to the poor.
We are his only way to show that all people
Are his brothers and sisters.
Of course the major focus of MAD is the walkathon; an 8km stroll around the streets of Bentleigh East. Our students also commit themselves to the raising of much needed funds for the students of the Hohola Youth Centre in Port Moresby.
New standards of endurance were set as some students chose to run the 8kms in record time while others preferred the more relaxing option of a leisurely stroll (also in record time!!). Upon their arrival at the finishing line, energy levels were quickly replenished with a hot dog and drink!!
It is social justice events such as Mission Action Day that provide opportunities for our students to “give of themselves for others”. These young men choose not to walk past those who need our support. As our Lasallian heritage demonstrates in the Starfish Story, “at least I made a difference to that one”.
Mr Martin Callanan
Religious Education Coordinator
As has been the case for at least 20 years, the St James College Walkathon is raising money for La Salle Technical College (LTC), in Hohola, Papua New Guinea, with the aim of providing a better education and greater opportunities for the students of LTC, many of whom would otherwise not receive a formal education.
The students are to be commended for their efforts on the day, and on their fundraising efforts so far. Students still have time to raise their $30 minimum, by asking extended family members, friends, neighbours, local businesses and sporting clubs for donations.
This year you can also pay by credit card by going to the St James College website: https://www.sjcbe.catholic.edu.au/contact-us/online-payments
Please indicate that the payment is for Fundraising (Mission Action Day) and also your Account Number.
Joel Harriss
Mission Action Day
Walkathon Co-ordinator
