FAITH MATTERS 

Hearts Open to the Stories of Others

This week we acknowledged Refugee Week, with the 2026 theme “A Million Stories.” This theme invites us to remember that behind every journey of seeking safety, hope and belonging is a person, a family and a story. Each story is unique, and each person deserves to be welcomed with dignity, compassion and respect.

As a Catholic community, we are called to follow the example of Jesus, who reached out to those on the margins and reminded us of the importance of loving and caring for one another. Our Josephite tradition also guides us in this response. St Mary MacKillop’s words, “We are but travellers here,” remind us that we are all on a journey and that we have a responsibility to walk alongside others with kindness, understanding and generosity.

Last week we also celebrated the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus — a significant celebration in the life of the Church and particularly meaningful for us as a Josephite school. The Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart were founded on a deep commitment to seeing a need and responding with love. The Sacred Heart reminds us of the endless compassion of Jesus and calls us to put that love into action through our words, choices and service to others.

One important way we continue to live out this call is through our annual St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. Each year, our school community gathers donations of non-perishable food, pantry items and toiletries to support individuals and families in our local community who are experiencing hardship. Every donation, no matter how small, is a sign of solidarity and a reminder that we can each play a part in bringing warmth, hope and dignity to others.

Next week we will gather for our annual Hearts and Hands Mass, where we will present our donations to our local St Vincent de Paul Chapter here in Swan Hill. This special celebration brings together the message of the Sacred Heart — hearts filled with compassion — and our hands, ready to serve and make a difference. Mass will start at 10:15 am at St. Mary’s Church. All are very welcome.

Thank you to all families, students and staff who have already contributed to the Winter Appeal. Your generosity reflects who we strive to be as a Catholic community: people who notice the needs of others and respond with open hearts.

May we continue to be inspired by Mary MacKillop’s example to “never see a need without doing something about it.”

Loving God,

You are with us on every journey.

Help us to walk the pathway of compassion.

Open our eyes to the stories of others.

Open our hearts to those in need.

Open our hands in generosity.

May we follow the example of St Mary MacKillop, walking with courage, welcoming the stranger, and bringing hope wherever we go.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Jesus light of the world, guide us

St Joseph, journey with us

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us

Alison Wright

Director of Faith and Mission