CHRISTIAN MEDITATION

This term we have been practising the skill of Christian Meditation. We start by sitting comfortably in a chair. A chime is rung to signify the start and end of the meditation. We ask that students close their eyes, breath quietly and deeply and be open to the presence of God. Students can repeat a simple mantra

“M-a-r-a-n-a-t-h-a” which means ‘Come Lord’.

The benefits of meditation in the classroom are that students develop a closer relationship to God and they are calm and ready to start their learning.

You might like to try this meditation practice with your family at home.

The annual Caritas Australia Project Compassion Appeal has begun. Donations to
Project Compassion allows Caritas Australia, the Catholic Agency for International Aid and Development, to work with local communities around the world to alleviate poverty, hunger, oppression and injustice.

We encourage you to put your compassion into action this Lent through your prayer, fasting and almsgiving by supporting Project Compassion. Each family has received a Project Compassion box for their donations or you can donate online via the Caritas Australia website at: lent.caritas.org.au     

Fourth Week of Lent

Arsad, an Indonesian farmer, had no toilet in his house, so always had to walk into
the forest to the open defecation area. His family was often sick and open defecation caused many neighbourhood disputes. With the support of Caritas Australia and its partner agency, Laz Harfa, Arsad took part in hygiene, sanitation and financial management training. He then funded the building of a toilet in his house and helped other community members to save money to construct their own toilet.

Now, Arsad’s family is healthier, their community no longer practices open defecation and is more harmonious. Arsad inspired his community to ‘Be More.’

• Around 17 percent of Indonesia’s rural population, or 45 million people, practice open defecation – going to the toilet outdoors in fields, forests and other open spaces. (World Bank) 

Watch a short film about Arsad’s story here.

 “Aspire not to have more, but to be more.” Please support Project Compassion: lent.caritas.org.au

 

KNOCK ON EFFECT

Vinnies changes lives every day, but they need our help. 

During the month of March Vinnies is running the Knock On Effect campaign to highlight the knock on effects that donations, fundraising and raising awareness can have. 

With over 2 million people living below the poverty line in Australia, including over half a million children, your contribution allows the St Vincent de Paul Society to provide more than immediate help, it provides something much more valuable - the opportunity of a better life. 

Please join us in supporting those who need a hand up in challenging times.  We will celebrate this initiative this Friday 19^th March. Students are invited to come to school in casual clothes or #DressedbyVinnies. We ask that all students contribute a gold coin donation.

Bridgette McCann Acting REC