From The Chaplain

Another podcast, another drive and another call for confirmation

The SCEGGS Podcast “Walk The Mile” Episode 56: A Voice Still Heard

The SCEGGS Primary School observed Reconciliation Week last week and Secondary School is doing so this week. Going along with these events, this week’s podcast is a conversation with two of our Indigenous Aunties: Aunty Kath Farrawell and Aunty Viv Freeman. They both share their own stories, as well as their ancestors, and talk about what drives them to continue being a voice to future generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We discussed reconciliation and its part in constructing a stronger, more compassionate and equitable nation. I hope you gain something from our conversation.

This episode contains references and stories about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that may cause distress.

And a reminder that we are published on Spotify, Apple and other popular podcast platforms so you can access it more easily from your preferred device. I always welcome your feedback or any ideas you may have for further episodes. You will find each podcast as they are produced in this newsletter and on other platforms as well as our website.

Hoodies, Trackies and Blankies

As the mornings become chillier and I sort through my beanie collection, it is time to start thinking about what it might be like for those less fortunate in our local community. I have noticed an increase in the number of people sleeping rough at night around Woolloomooloo and Kings Cross recently and they will be trying hard to stay warm as we head through winter. For the next couple of weeks, I am doing a drive for any tracksuit pants, hoodies or blankets that you would like to donate for distribution in our local area. I will be delivering some of these items personally and taking some of them to different welfare agencies. There is a particular need for large size men’s tracksuits and hoodies. It has also been requested that all items be used (in good condition) for environmental reasons. If you could bring your donations in before the last day of term Friday 28 June that would be really helpful. Items can be left in the basket outside the Chapel or in my office.

Confirmation at SCEGGS

Confirmation has been part of the SCEGGS tradition since 1927. It is the Christian practice of confirming the promises made on one’s behalf at baptism. By being confirmed, the confirmee is saying that they understand the Christian faith and want to make it an important part of their lives. It is a formal way of declaring publicly a belief in Jesus Christ. The confirmation ceremony is not only an expression of faith but also a welcoming into the worldwide Christian church.

Confirmation is offered to all students in years 8 to 11. There will be a number of meetings held during lunchtime to prepare for the confirmation ceremony. During these meetings we will be looking at the basics of the Christian faith, discussing their importance and answering any questions you may have. Neither baptism nor connection with the Anglican Church is necessary. There is also an opportunity for those seeking baptism within the confirmation process. A confirmation service will be held in third term in the school chapel, officiated by the Bishop of South Sydney, the Reverend Michael Stead. Relatives and friends are invited to this very special occasion. Please let me know if you would like your daughter to be part of this tradition by Wednesday 12 June.

Rev. Garry Lee-Lindsay
Chaplain