The Year 9 Religion course covers social justice issues, in particular homelessness. Students reflect on justice, compassion, and the human dignity of all people. Part of this unit of study, Year 9 students went into the city to explore homelessness. The day began with a Pilgrimage where students visited churches in the city, in particular the Welsh Church, St. John’s Cathedral, as well as celebrating an 11am mass at St Francis, where Antonine College was acknowledged in the service. After the service, students reflected on the history of the churches and their significance to the city of Melbourne.
After the church service, we made our way to the State Library for lunch. Students were given the opportunity to walk through Melbourne’s central central “knowledge hub,” and were in awe of the architecture and public space where people can read, study, research, and learn about history and culture. After lunch, we walked to the Salvation Army Headquarters on Bourke street, where students engaged in workshops, looking at the reasons why people are homeless, examining real-life stories, statistics and more importantly the services they provide for those who are in this dire situation. The program allowed students to learn about how we can help those in need by making donations and volunteering. The day allowed students to foster curiosity, compassion, and a desire to make a difference in our local communities.
Students truly engaged in reflecting on justice, compassion, and the human dignity of all people, reflecting on the school theme, God is Love, and that God is present in all people, especially the disadvantaged.
- Ms Diane Farah