From the Chaplains

Last week I had the privilege of accompanying a group of Year 9 students from Pymble and Knox to Walgett, Brewarrina and Goodooga. Goodooga Central School hosts the Goodooga Indigenous games held annually at the school. I remember planning this trip in 2018 when the first group from Pymble went across to Goodooga. We caught a train to Dubbo, and then drove from Dubbo to Walgett, Brewarrina and then Goodooga. 

This year, following the break we had due to Covid, was the first time we were able to make this happen. I had the privilege of journeying with some wonderful staff from Knox Grammar as well as Julie Shaw and Kate Howie. 

Following my last regional trip in 2019, I had forgotten how rejuvenating it can be to be in the bush again with students. To be met with rural hospitality and friendship and to interact with children across these places we visited was soul inspiring. We experienced community and deep interactions with First nations families in these regions including a great insight into the Fish traps in Brewarrina. 

I had the privilege of visiting these in 2018, although there was no water and we were amid a drought. To see the fish traps teaming with life and water filled our hearts with hope and was a miracle moment.  

The trip was long and seemed arduous, and yet the journey was what will remain ingrained as the highlight of my year at Pymble. The journey was with First Nations and non-Indigenous students, all of whom participated fully in this cultural immersion.   

I am enclosing some photos of our trip and the words of Jesus from the Beatitudes his most famous sermon quoting the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 5: Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 

May we continue to find meekness in our approach to one another this week, as we communicate, relate, and involve ourselves in life. The depth of our inheriting the earth will come when we enter the journey of relationships and live the cost involved, emulating the footsteps of Christ who always walked alongside those who were in most need of a companion. 

Blessings and peace.

Reverend Punam Bent

College Chaplain