Service Experience

As part of our Community Life curriculum theme of Renewal, Year 9 students stepped away from their regular timetable in Week 7 to participate in a week-long Service Experience. Throughout the week, students explored what it means to respond to Jesus' command to "love God and love others" through both biblical reflection and practical action.

Each day began with devotions and discussions centred on service in Scripture. Students considered how God's people are called to care for others, examined the example set by Jesus, and reflected on the lives of biblical figures who faithfully served those around them.

A highlight of the week was the opportunity to learn from a range of guest speakers who shared their own experiences of serving others. We were privileged to hear from Sam Ramsden, Tony Rinaudo, Richard and Rachel Reed, and Amelia Mock.

The learning extended well beyond the classroom. Across the week, students participated in a variety of service projects designed to meet real needs within both the school and wider community. From preparing meals for local food relief programs and assisting in our DCC Primary School, to partnering with community organisations, students were given numerous opportunities to place others before themselves.

Here are some Student reflections:

“My thinking that service is helping others without expecting anything back has been reinforced throughout this week, as I’ve seen the impact the finished work on the property will have on future Year 9s, or how strangers will feel receiving a letter and some tea bags. And though I haven’t really seen any of the recipient’s reactions to our service, I’m sure that it would’ve positively impacted at least one person, and if that’s the only outcome of this week, then I think that’s still good, and that’s the way service is sometimes” 

“I think that the Practical Service activity that we participated in that had the most effect on recipients was Prison Fellowship. We spent some time before we started learning about what we were doing, and why it was important to the kids. This helped me to understand why they needed our service and gave me and others purpose throughout the process of making cards and bracelets, writing warm fuzzies, and wrapping gifts. Hopefully our gifts and cards will support the children through this tough time of their lives, and bring them encouragement on their Prison Fellowship camps, and at Christmas”

“I thought service was annoying chores that you were forced to do, but it turns out it is not that at all. Service is making an impact on people's lives, and you don't do it because you have to but because you love it and want to serve. After all, Jesus came here to serve us rather than to be served”

“My idea of service has not changed intensely, although I didn’t ever really expect to have so much fun while serving. Sometimes, when I pictured serving, I would picture it to be quite lonely, but my thinking has been changed in the sense that we can have lots of community and enjoyment while serving too. It does not have to be individual, but can be communal”