Social Justice News

National Reconciliation Week 2020

‘In this together’     

This past week across Australia we celebrated National Reconciliation Week. As Catholics we are very familiar with reconciliation as we know that the sacrament of reconciliation allows us the opportunity to strengthen our relationship with God. NRW allows us to reconcile and strengthen the relationship between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians. At Mazenod we celebrated National Reconciliation Week in 2020 fashion. The theme ‘In this together’ served as a reminder for us all to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

In past years we have held activities during lunchtime and been part of The Long Walk and the ‘Dreamtime at the ‘G’ football match of the AFL Indigenous Round. Obviously this year our events  were limited with our current social conditions in mind. It was great to see so many students take up the challenge to have a go at an activity we could run online - our NRW quiz. Test yourself too by following this link to the survey. https://forms.gle/Jrask4qQXpoQu5P87   

Letter writing project 

Vinnies Conference

Our College Vinnies Conference has been challenged by the impact of the COVID-19 crisis, but the key message is that we are as committed as ever to our mission of providing a hand-up to people in need during this time. We considered our SEE/THINK/DO approach to social justice and came up with a program to remain true to both the Society’s mission and the inspiration we draw from St Eugene de Mazenod. Keeping the health and well-being of all of us in mind we launched a letter writing program. 

The conference encouraged students to get involved: ‘Now is your chance to follow St Eugene’s message to be a burning flame, not a smoldering wick. YOU can help others in the community by reaching out to those who may have lost the opportunity to socialise with others. We are called to serve our community and to serve Christ as taught in the Gospel (Matthew 25:31-40) and to take part in “the work which the Lord inspires us to undertake.” (St Eugene de Mazenod) In light of the virus many elderly in aged care facilities face health concerns and many are lonely because of social restrictions. The Vinnies Conference at Mazenod has started an initiative so that you can provide a light to these people by making a connection with them and providing them interaction. You do NOT need to write a 1000 word essay and you do NOT need to worry if your writing is good enough - just write a bit about yourself and ask them how they are doing. Your letters will be distributed to residents at Monash Gardens and Cabrini Ashwood’.

We were pleased with the response of the students and encourage anyone else who wants to be involved to email President Gajindu on RAJAPGT16@mazenodcollege.vic.edu.au or secretary Anthony at VASSIAJ16@mazenodcollege.vic.edu.au to register your interest.

Mrs Jacinta Girolami

Social Justice