I have been reflecting on the concept of being united recently. A couple of weeks ago we celebrated Reconciliation Week and over the last couple of weeks we have been engaged in planning for Unite Week which will occur in Week 10 of this term. These events focus on bringing people together to celebrate our collective identity in a way that honours and acknowledges our individual uniqueness.
On Wednesday of this week, I had the privilege of being part of a Thomas Hassall table at the annual Sydney Prayer Breakfast held at the ICC Sydney. It was an incredible event! The breakfast brought together 1800 Christian people from all walks of life and industries to stop and pray for the work of the Gospel across our city, state and country. The guest speaker for the event was Tim Kirk, who amongst other things, is a famous wine maker. Tim shared his faith journey as a proud, passionate and committed Christian Catholic man. He retold the story of when he first personally encountered Jesus at the age of 15 and the impact that moment has had on his life since then.
What struck me as I listened to Tim Kirk’s presentation was the power of the Gospel to not only change lives but also to unite. The power of his testimony had nothing to do with denomination or cultural or family background, it had everything to do with the truths of the Gospel: Jesus was born, lived, died and was raised to life. It is in this truth that the 1800 people across the ICC were united.
Back on campus, we are engaging in several events that have a similar power to bring us together. Today, for instance, we are celebrating the commencement of the FIFA World Cup by wearing Colours for Compassion. As a College, we have committed to supporting two young people across the world who are less fortunate than ourselves. Our Junior School supports Alondra, a 6-year-old girl from Peru. Our Senior School supports Hengki, a 15-year-old boy from Indonesia. Whilst only symbolic, this support makes a significant difference in the lives of these young people. The money raised through the students’ gold coin donation will directly support our Compassion sponsor children. As the World Cup begins and loyalty for different countries resounds, we are united by our efforts to make a difference and be generous to others.
I have heard a lot about Unite Week and I am very much looking forward to it. The students and staff speak with such passion and enthusiasm about what a wonderful cultural celebration it always is. As we prepare for Unite Week, we have planned a series of learning experiences to focus on cultural awareness, cultural appreciation and cultural responsiveness. These learning experiences will take place in the Manners Matter lessons in Junior School and Pastoral Care groups in the Senior School. These important discussions and reflective exercises will help to frame the cultural celebration that takes place in Unite Week. May it be a time where each person’s cultural background and uniqueness can be celebrated, honoured and respected and where our College community is further united.