Reflection

Homelessness

Every night, more than 122,000 people in Australia experience homelessness. Although the most visible experience of homelessness involves sleeping rough on the streets, this type of homelessness only represents 6% of the homeless population. Thousands of men, women, young people and children forced to ‘couch surf’, seek shelter in a car or rely on temporary accommodation, are experiencing different forms of homelessness. People living in severely overcrowded dwellings or inadequate forms of shelter that fall well below adequate standards, such as boarding houses and caravan parks, are also considered to be experiencing homelessness.

We may not experience, but can readily imagine, the pain and isolation that go with being homeless. Without a fixed residence the things we take for granted in our daily life such as cooking, hygiene, washing clothes, relaxing and planning become major challenges. Our network of connection with family, friends and neighbours becomes stretched. Homelessness is more than a misfortune. It is the violation of the right of every human being to a culturally appropriate place in which to live.

We should, as Jesus would want us to do, look out for people who are homeless in our own neighbourhood and among our friends. When it comes to lack of shelter, we should not be content to have the poor always with us. We should ensure that the poor can share with us the world, our common home.

The College’s Vinnies group are having a Winter Sleepout on Friday August 23. We have 60 students and some staff members who are involved in this very worthwhile activity. Funds will be raised for the homeless, and awareness is created about the issue.

May we pray for those who find themselves without a place to call home, without shelter and warmth. May they be provided with the basic necessities of life, such as food, clothing, and a comfortable place to rest. May we be generous, helping where we can. 

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works

and give glory to your Father in heaven.

Holy Family of Nazareth, be our inspiration and our guide.

Jesus of Nazareth, help us to grow in Faith, Wisdom and Knowledge.