Kindness

Pope Francis says this about Kindness:

Kindness is an important aspect of the culture of dialogue, and dialogue is indispensable to live in peace, to live as brothers and sisters, who do not always agree – this is normal – but who nevertheless speak to each other, listen to each other and try to understand each other and to move toward one another.

In reality, sometimes it is hard to be kind to those who are not kind to us. Our young people struggle with the concept at times because as a society we talk about it - but often from a personal gain point of view  - how do you expect your young person to be kind? Do they know what it feels like when someone is kind to them?  How is it modelled in the world at the moment with what they see in American Politics? The conflicts around the world - what is the ‘big picture’ of being kind? It could be thought of the old phrase ‘what would Jesus do?” From this, comes the actions we show each other - the help and the support. Therefore in the spirit of kindness, I would ask you to contribute to Vinnie's winter appeal and give what you can.

This week we have had the Careers market in the gym with providers from employers around the Illawarra. Thank you to Mrs Kennedy for all her organisation. It was a wonderful opportunity for the students, not only from Joeys but attended by Corpus Christi and Holy Spirit.

This will be followed up next week with our Senior Subject Information night. It is an expectation for parents to be involved in your child’s education, so please attend with your child. Students need parental support for their choices but it should be a discussion rather than being dictated to a particular study pattern - our young people need to be passionate and engaged in their education as you never know where it can lead!

When parents enrol at SJCHS I have spoken about the need for alignment between the values of home and school. It is important for the ongoing alignment to make the education and support we offer for students to be worthwhile. It is a choice to be here and a privilege. This also gives responsibility to students to abide by the conditions of the school - to do the right thing - to engage in their education and be the best person they can be. If your child is not interested in engaging in their education, maybe SJCHS is not the place for them. There are educational options that they may be better suited to.