From the Religious Education Coordinator: Year 8 Reflection Day

In our Community … …

On Tuesday 29 July our Year 8 students had the wonderful opportunity to be involved in their Year 8 Reflection Day. Led by the Youth Mission Team, the day was filled with a variety of fun and interactive activities that incorporated the theme of relationships. I would like to thank the Youth Mission Team for running the reflection day. I would also like to say a huge thank you to our wonderful Domremy staff for being a part of the day; Mr Greg Sciortino, Ms Marissa Watson, Ms Jacinta Milhem, Ms Isabella Bechara and Ms Kavita Kshatriya.

Here is a wonderful reflection from Olivia (Y8):

“The Year 8 Reflection Day was a significant day that relates to our wellbeing, mental and emotional health as well as our faith. As we explored the main theme of relationships, we participated in activities involving communication, listening, thinking, and looking at different perspectives. We had amazing volunteers from the Youth Mission Team, and they shared their knowledge, talents and experiences with us throughout the day. We took part in many activities focusing on the themes of self-esteem, uniqueness and friendships, and they provided us with advice and techniques as we manage and explore relationships.

Some of these activities were done in groups, where we used communication and listening skills to solve puzzles. These puzzles made us put ourselves into a situation and solve problems, allowing us to think critically and listen to everyone’s ideas which were all different, helping us work together and achieve our goals. A couple of the volunteers also shared personal stories about situations they were once in during relationships, especially in high school. They explained how they dealt with it, with the help of God to guide them. The volunteers also performed many different drama presentations. Some of the concepts were shown clearly while others were more abstract, allowing us to unpack the performance and uncover the secret messages behind it. 

Our last activity was a peaceful and meaningful one, where we were able to pray together with God. We were able to sit quietly and reflect, and write our name on a Cross as a way of praying. This is an important way that we connect with God and remind ourselves that He plays a significant role as we explore and deal with relationships, and that He is always listening and helps us through our journey. It was a significant and reminiscent conclusion to the day. 

This event really helped me and gave useful advice. It encouraged me to find the right kind of people for me, and also find the good things about myself. This experience taught me that treating others with kindness and compassion can result in a more enjoyable and diverse world. I am very grateful to have participated in this reflection day and to have people share their experiences, ideas, beliefs and perspectives with me.” (Olivia, Y8)

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator