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HEARING THE CRY OF THE EARTH AND THE CRY OF THE POOR (Mission Forum)

"Today, we have to realise that a true ecological approach always becomes a social approach; it must integrate questions of justice in debates on the environment, so as to hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.” - Pope Francis, Laudato Si' On Care for Our Common Home

Three Year 11 students, Sophia Britton, Bailey Gilbert, and Alexis Paulo, attended the Senior Student Marist Mission Forum last weekend. This event brought together a wonderful group of students from six different Marist schools in Sydney.

The Senior Student Marist Mission Forum is a gathering for Year 11 and 12 students from Marist schools across NSW-ACT. Organized by the Marist Youth Ministry team, the weekend aimed to deepen students' understanding of Marist spirituality and mission. It provided an opportunity for students to pause, reflect, and listen to the call of the Spirit within their hearts. The forum sought to renew students' awareness of our interconnectedness, our responsibility for creation, and our commitment to human dignity.

The weekend featured a variety of activities. On Friday night, students participated in a simulation game called "Basti Life," which offered a powerful glimpse into life in a slum. Saturday morning involved workshops where students could choose to attend three out of four sessions. The Lavalla 200 community shared insights on volunteering within and beyond the Marist world. Other workshops covered biodiversity, refugees, and creation. The actual forum took place on Sunday morning, focusing on discussions around fast fashion, climate change, and refugees.

Senior Student Forum - Student Feedback

In ten words or less, describe your experience at the Senior Student Mission Forum:

• "It was a fun time while still focusing on serious issues."
• "I had a great time; I made new friends and found a new appreciation for a lot of things. This experience was a huge eye-opener."
• "Fun experience, met new people, deepened my faith."
• "This experience was great as it allowed me to make connections with several new people and learn more about the Marist life and helping others in need."
• "It was a fun time to make new friends, get away from the comfort of my home, and connect with nature and my faith."
• "This experience was very fun and I enjoyed the activities and games provided. I also really liked the morning and afternoon prayers as they were very calming."
• "It was great and knowledgeable. I had a fun time talking and meeting new people. It was enlightening to understand the struggles of refugees and the impacts of not treating the world right."