Project Compassion: Unite Against Poverty
Over the past 61 years, Project Compassion has evolved from funding a single fishing boat for the Tiwi Islanders to raising nearly $300 million, supporting vulnerable communities globally. In 2024 alone, approximately 1,700 Catholic schools and 1,200 parishes participated, collectively raising $9.7 million.
Project Compassion 2025, spearheaded by Caritas Australia, embraces the theme "Unite Against Poverty," calling upon communities nationwide to collaboratively address and alleviate poverty during the Lenten season. โ
This theme resonates deeply with the teachings of Jesus, who emphasised caring for the marginalised. As highlighted in Matthew 25:35-36: "โFor I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me." โ
This year's campaign introduces initiatives such as the Long Walk for Water, encouraging participants to walk daily during Lent to symbolise the journey many undertake to access clean water, and Give it up for Lent, where individuals forgo certain luxuries to raise funds. These activities not only raise awareness but also foster a sense of solidarity with those facing adversity.โ
By uniting against poverty, Project Compassion 2025 inspires Australians to reflect on their own blessings and take meaningful action to support those in need, embodying compassion and justice in their daily lives.
Healthy Rites of Passage for Adolescents: Guiding Our Young People Toward Purpose and Responsibility
As educators, parents, and leaders in the St Francis of Assisi Catholic school community, we play a vital role in guiding young people through the challenging transition from childhood to adulthood. Dr. Arne Rubenstein, a leading expert in adolescent development, highlights the importance of healthy rites of passage—rituals or experiences that help young people mark and embrace this transition. These rites not only provide structure and purpose but also help adolescents develop a sense of self, responsibility, and a connection to the larger community.
In the past, many cultures and religious traditions had clear rites of passage that helped young people understand their identity and their role in the world. Today, the pressures of modern society, including the rapid pace of change, technology, and individualism, can leave adolescents without these important milestones. As a result, young people may feel disconnected from their purpose and struggle to find meaning in their lives. Without clear rites of passage, the journey into adulthood can seem overwhelming and uncertain.
In the encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis calls for a deep, spiritual connection with creation, recognising that everything is interconnected. This sense of interdependence offers an opportunity to frame rites of passage in a way that encourages adolescents not only to find their personal identity but also to understand their responsibility to care for the Earth and each other. By integrating this ecological and social justice perspective into our rites of passage, we help young people understand their role as stewards of the world.
At St Francis of Assisi College, we are called to provide meaningful, faith-filled experiences that guide our students through these important transitions. Through healthy rites of passage, we can support our students to embrace adulthood with purpose, compassion, and a strong sense of responsibility to the world around them.
Our Faith in Action opportunities, whole of school wellbeing approach in partnership with the Life Buoyancy Institute, our ongoing partnership with the LifeChanger Foundation and whole pastoral care program each contribute to supporting our students along this journey.
Harmony Week 2025: Everyone Belongs
Monday March 17th to Sunday March 23rd
Harmony Week is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. It is about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.
At St Francis of Assisi College, one of our core values is Acceptance, and day to day, this means fostering a community that is inclusive and welcoming to all students. Research shows that adolescents benefit greatly from experiencing student diversity, this includes cultural diversity and students of different abilities. These experiences not only promote social cohesion but also contribute significantly to the intellectual and emotional growth of young people.
Studies have shown that cultural diversity in schools enhances students’ ability to think critically, solve problems, and adapt to different perspectives. Exposure to various cultures fosters empathy and tolerance, which are essential skills in today’s interconnected world. Adolescents who interact with peers from diverse backgrounds develop a broader understanding of global issues and gain a deeper appreciation for the richness of human experience. This helps them become more compassionate and open-minded individuals, prepared to engage in a multicultural society.
Neurodiverse students as an example, offer a range of strengths and opportunities to our school community. Research indicates that an inclusive approach to education, supporting students with diverse cognitive and learning, promotes better outcomes for all students as this richness brings unique strengths to the learning environment, such as creativity, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. When students work alongside each other in an inclusive learning environment, they develop greater patience, adaptability, and collaborative skills, all of which are key traits for future personal and professional lives.
For adolescents, exposure to a diverse student body is not just about academic growth; it also nurtures emotional intelligence. These experiences help young people understand the importance of inclusivity, kindness, and respect for others. Providing a supportive environment where every student feels valued, helps to foster well-rounded individuals who are ready to contribute positively to society.
Mr Nathan Hayes, Principal
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