PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
Dear parents/ Guardians,
A REFLECTION ON KINDNESS
Below is a very interesting article about a worldwide initiative to brighten peoples lives.
Recently over 80 countries participated in “Pay It Forward Day.” The purpose of this event is described as:A global initiative that exists to make a difference by creating a huge ripple of kindness felt across the world. Of course, our hope is that people pay kindness forward every day and make each day that little bit brighter. We believe that small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can literally change the world for the better.
This day reminds us to consider how acts of kindness, without the need for direct reciprocation, can become the example and inspiration for another. A lived learning that teaches us to take the love and kindness that has been forwarded to us and extend it to others. In doing so, creating a wave of kindness.
Such a wave or ripple effect is captured in the sentiment of Mother Teresa who once said our actions and words can be small and easy to speak, “but their echoes are truly endless”. How profound it is to pause and ponder the power of a simple act of kindness. Like a tender mustard seed, one simple act of kindness can have a transformative power equivalent to water and sunshine that will allow its growth into a life-giving tree.
Science has revealed that the benefits of kindness are as much for the giver as they are for the receiver. Practising kindness nurtures the human quality of empathy and compassion - essential for creating social connection and a sense of belonging. Studies have even shown that it is an act twice blessed. Just one act of kindness a day has the power to reduce stress, anxiety and depression, in both you and the person you have helped. The feel-good hormones released in the body - serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins - help the body and mind to heal, relax, feel loved and encourage love for others. Even an onlooker witnessing an act of kindness can have these same positive effects, meanwhile nurturing one’s faith and hope in humanity.
As Christian people inspired by the love of Jesus, our faith is guided by a ‘Pay It Forward’ kind of missiology. Summed up simply in John’s Gospel:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35
In other words, take the love and kindness I have given to you, and pass it onto others. In doing this the discipleship of love and kindness will spread among everyone.
This year, as Pay It Forward Day comes and goes, we are reminded of our call to discipleship – our call to goodness and kindness. Inspired yet again by the words of Mother Teresa:
“Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.”
ANZAC DAY – 2022 AT JOHN THERRY
On ANZAC Day we had a large number of Staff and students gather for the Campbelltown ceremony. Despite the drizzle the enthusiasm was not dampened and I thank all who attended. Below are some accounts from students and photos of the event.
Each year, one student, from one school, in the Campbelltown council area gets to address the crowd. This year Jayden Cook had the privilege and his address was well received by the crowd. His speech is below and I urge all to spend a few minutes and read it.
"I was really happy to have attended the ANZAC Day ceremony and be a part of the commemoration of those who have died in war and those who have returned. While most of the original ANZAC’s who returned from service have since passed away, it is important to reflect upon and remember the sacrifice such soldiers made during war and the impacts their service continues to have on Australia. This year, it seemed an even more important occasion than it already is due to ceremony cancellations in previous years regarding COVID-19 concerns and lockdown closures.
It was an honour to attend the ANZAC Day ceremony, of which I will again next year, and strongly encourage students to take part in such a meaningful event."
VIVIENNE DOS SANTOS (YEAR 10)
"It was 8:30am when I arrived at the ANZAC day March. I was greeted by Mr Martyn who signed me in (so Murray could gain house points). Queen street was a familiar place, but today it was filled with people who had all come together for a single purpose. To respect those who sacrificed their lives for the safety of our nation. People of all backgrounds, schools, ages were present to pay respect. The wet climate stayed consistent throughout the morning, easing off and then returning, but it didn’t keep people away. Luckily we had umbrellas.
We reached Mawson park and gathered to commemorate the ANZACs. Our school laid a wreath at the epitaph. Words describing the bravery of the ANZACS were consistent, with every speech sparking emotion and empathy for a fallen soldier who may go unnamed. It was a privilege to be involved in a community gathering where the community was united with a common purpose without disagreement to commemorate the ANZACs."
XAVIER MARTIN (YEAR 11)
