This week we had our Laudato Si Liturgy and Vinnies winter appeal launch. This is a call to action - to do something for those who are less fortunate than ourselves. It is our responsibility to look after our common home, the environment, the flora and fauna and also the people.

The Vinnie’s appeal is asking us to give. It is important to the development of our young people that they can see the ‘other’ because they often get caught up in their own selves and drama. Being kind to each other costs nothing but can make a huge difference to the other person. It is also important that kindness is freely given without any expectation of it being returned or doing for personal gain or to look good. Because if we are doing it for those reasons, it is not kindness it is self-interest. Please make an effort to contribute what you can to these appeals.

The Athletics Carnival on Thursday was a spectacular day. We were very blessed with the weather. I hope to enjoy seeing the photos from the day on social media. Thank you to the Year 12 students who made such an effort with their dress ups - it was an excellent day. Thank you to the staff for organising and supervising on the day.

Parents are the primary educators of your children. I would ask that you have discussions about the current issues hitting the media with your children around Domestic violence, the giving of consent and the importance of respect. There have been a couple of instances of late where it appears to be a shock to the young person - like a concept they have never heard before or that it doesn’t really apply to them. We can only reinforce the values of home and when enrolling at SJCHS I ask that your family values align with the school otherwise it doesn’t work well for the young person as there is a conflict in their developing identity. 

Teenage rudeness and self-centeredness is no excuse for not showing respect to parents, teachers and peers. Being held to a standard of behaviour creates young people who are resilient and can cope in the future because they can see the point of view of another person.