Director of Mission

Athena Costopoulos

An Attitude of Gratitude

This week I was inspired by the Small Blessings Community Campaign. It is amazing what a difference an attitude of gratitude can make to your outlook on life. Our students and staff are a constant source of kindness and positivity. I have been astounded by the amount of donations for St Vincent de Paul and the generosity of Ms Firth, who has made so many beautiful toiletry bags. Staff and students have taken up the challenge of knitting squares in house colours that will make beautiful, warm blankets for the Vinnies Winter Appeal. This is a great holiday activity, so keep it up!

Black Lives Matter

Challenged by Christ’s message of loving our neighbour, Community Service Prefect, Tamarra Woods, has undertaken research on the Black Lives Matter movement and the issue of racism in our country. Her presentation to the Mercy Girls In Action group was an opportunity to prompt discussions and open our eyes to the injustices faced by so many Australians.

This week Pastoral Care groups were encouraged to reflect on the Refugee Week theme, Celebrating the Year of Welcome. We remember our Mercy values of hospitality and compassion and welcome those in need.

TOGETHER WE PRAY

God, no one is stranger to you

And no one is ever far from your loving care.

In your kindness watch over migrants, refugees and asylum seekers,

Those separated from their loved ones,

Those who are lost

And those who have been exiled from their homes.

Bring them safely to the place where they long to be,

And help us always to show your kindness to strangers

And those in need.

We ask this through Christ our Lord,

Who too was a refugee and migrant

Who travelled to another land

Searching for a home.

Amen

Source: Nouwen Network