From the Chaplain

This week in Chapel we are thinking about the environment of giving and receiving that many of us participate in during the Christmas season and what messages a gift can bring. I am also presenting to the students some other options of being able to give to those in need where the gifts we provide will make a big difference in someone else’s life. Here are a few examples:  

“Mr Lee-Lindsay needs NEW Socks and Undies”

For those new to our community I would like to introduce you to our annual socks and undies drive. There are a number of welfare organisations that are always asking for NEW socks and undies for their clientele. This is a serious issue amongst the homeless in terms of hygiene and good foot care. It is a whole school activity and we would love to receive a variety of sizes for boys and girls, men and women. There is a basket outside the Chapel where all donations can be delivered. I will be taking the items to various locations in the last week of this school term.

Christmas Gift Collection

As part of our annual school Christmas service, we ask each student to contribute towards a gift for either a boy or a girl, wrapped in cellophane, to donate to Vinnie’s Community Centre in Redfern. These gifts will be distributed to children that may not otherwise receive anything at Christmas due to poverty or other family issues. The demand continues to grow as many families face financial pressure and housing stress during these unsettling times. Feedback we receive each year indicates that these gifts make a huge difference to children throughout our city, giving them the message that they are loved and cared for.

We have also been approached by some local agencies that would like help to create Christmas hampers to give to their clientele. Lou’s Place in Redfern and the Drug and Alcohol Service at St Vincents Hospital are seeking donations of toiletries and other Christmas items to give to their clientele to provide some joy this Christmas. I am still working out the finer details but will give an update next week once we have everything in place.

TEAR Australia Useful Gift Catalogue  

Thinking further afield, this gift catalogue provides for someone overseas in great need of things such as clean water, an education, food resources etc. It is a gift that you can give to someone you know but also to a stranger in need. Students have the opportunity to pick up a brochure but you can also have a look at it here. 

As many of us enter into this spirit of giving, why not consider those gifts that will certainly make an impact.

Rev. Garry Lee-Lindsay
School Chaplain