To be People of Peace
As a Catholic school community, we are challenged to place everything we do in the context of the Gospel. As we leave for a school break, there are many opportunities to spend some time in reflection. Pope Francis, Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby have issued a joint statement, calling on people to pray, in this Christian season of Creation, for world leaders ahead of COP26 this November. The statement reads: ‘We call on everyone, whatever their belief or worldview, to endeavour to listen to the cry of the earth and of people who are poor, examining their behaviour and pledging meaningful sacrifices for the sake of the earth which God has given us.’
During this Season of Creation, the United Nations also recognises the International Day of Peace on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire. For 2021, they have focussed on healing from the COVID-19 pandemic, encouraging all people of good will to think creatively and collectively about how to help everyone recover better, how to build resilience, and how to transform our world into one that is more equal, more just, equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and healthier.
The pandemic is known for hitting the underprivileged and marginalized groups the hardest. By April 2021, over 687 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered globally, but over 100 countries have not received a single dose. People caught in conflict are especially vulnerable in terms of lack of access to healthcare. Let us be grateful for the opportunity to have access to life-saving healthcare in a world that is marked by inequality and let us work to ensure that others have ‘life to the full’ (John 10:10)
Joint Statement: HERE
Vatican News: HERE
UN Day for Peace: HERE
Catholic Justice & Peace: HERE
Liberating Education Badge
The school break is a good time to find opportunities to help others and to also take time to ensure we are doing things to stay engaged and work on our own wellbeing. The Edmund X Website has all the details about how you can stay connected and earn this special badge to show your leadership and resilience. I want to emphasise the Kindness Challenge because it gives us a very good reason to get involved in CSL activities. According to research by Mental Health organisation Acts of kindness have the potential to make the world a happier place. An act of kindness can boost feelings of confidence, being in control, happiness and optimism. They may also encourage others to repeat the good deeds they’ve experienced themselves – contributing to a more positive community. (Source: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk).
Congratulations to all students who have participated in the activities this year. Here’s a reminder from the student leaders and the announcement of the $50 voucher! Keep working towards your badge! https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1m8htvHikeaEXjo2mAaZRKH40Af66zT6d
Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity