By Amanda Murthy
Upholding the Mercy College Koondoola motto ‘Love in action’, a group of students who are part of the college’s Christian Service Learning (CSL) program have been performing acts of charity every second Saturday of each month.
The CSL is a flexible student-centred program that provides students with the opportunity to develop empathy, compassion and a sense of justice through meaningful and active citizenship.
Last month, a group of 25 students, accompanied by school staff, spent an entire morning at Girrawheen’s Our Lady of Mercy Parish, to help with the maintenance.
This act of community service to the Parish has been taking place for the past four years.
Mercy College Christian Service Learning Coordinator Ms Karen Wilson, said that the College motto and service to the community is essential, not just to talk about service and social justice but to do it meaningfully and authentically.
“We try our best to imitate the examples of Jesus – and one way is to serve, as He did,” Ms Wilson said.
Girrawheen Parish Priest Father Albert Saminedi, said the Parish is blessed in many ways, to continue to receive support from the staff and students of the college.
“Most of the cleaning and maintenance of the Church are done on a volunteering basis by the parishioners, so to have the students make time to help out for a good cause when they could be anywhere else, is really a testament of their kindness and generosity,” Fr Saminedi said.
“I think this is such a wonderful concept, because while the students get to help the Church tremendously with the up keeping of the Church, we teach them many useful skills that they can take home with them and put to practice around the house.
“This also helps strengthen the relationship with the parish and school, which is very important,” he added.
Girrawheen Parishioner and Head of Maintenance Denzel Welsh said during last month’s visit, the college students raked leaves, administered the rubbish collection, did the weeding and learned how to prune the rose trees, maintain the toilets, and were taught some woodwork as they learned how to professionally fix some of the Church pews.
“They are all wonderful kids, and they never complain each time they come – God bless them for all their good works, and to the staff of Mercy College for accompanying, supporting and encouraging them to give selflessly,” he concluded.
CSL student Sunny Lac said that service has always been a big part of Mercy College.
“Everyone in our school does community service, it’s just what we do and it makes us feel good.” he said.
“At the end you feel like you have accomplished something really worthwhile,” added fellow student Tony Nguyen.