From the Chaplain

Walk the Mile Episode 8: A Vision for Education

This week’s episode of Walk The Mile is a conversation with our Head of School, Ms Jenny Allum. 

She shares her insights on the future of education, what has inspired her to do what she does and what she wants for the school that she leads. If you ever wanted to know what its like to be a School Principal or what is inside the head of the Head, then have a listen and be enlightened! We have also created a link to all previous podcasts on the SCEGGS Darlinghurst web page. If you click on the Community tab you will find a link to the catalogue.  

In Chapel This Week

I often get parents asking me what happens in chapel. It’s easy to give a brief rundown of the process: readings, prayers, hymns etc. But I think what they are asking is what is the purpose or what are we addressing. The subject or theme for any given service can change according to what is happening in our world, our nation or even our school. Most of the stimulus that I get when preparing for chapel comes from the students and what is on their minds. It would be great if families could further the discussions that we initiate in chapel around the dinner table or on the drive home. It’s the only homework I ask for! I am hoping to share a bit more about what we discuss in chapel through this newsletter from time to time.

In line with all of the other activities that the school is participating in as we observe Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week, we are considering the ideas of apology and connection. The theme for Reconciliation Week this year is “More than just a word. Take action”. Saying sorry is the beginning of strengthening relationships. It takes further action to bring genuine reconciliation. The text for this week is the parable of The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-24). It is a story of unconditional love where the father leaves all judgement aside to reconnect with his son as he moves towards his son, not away, to bring true reconciliation.  Jesus tells this story to show that God is wanting a connection with the created order: the inhabitants and the environment. Caring for it and treating it with respect and dignity. And our purpose is to continue that process, to build stronger relationships and work towards a shared peace.  

Rev. Garry Lee-Lindsay
School Chaplain