It was a delight to be part of the ELC PJ days at both Donvale and Kew this term. While it was my first PJ day, the ELC has been taking part for many years and have developed a long connection with Melbourne City Mission (MCM) through their involvement.
MCM is an organisation doing important work to help those in our community to live a fulfilling life in spite of obstacles they may face, such as homelessness. We use PJ Day as an opportunity to not only raise funds for MCM, but also to discuss homelessness with our young students.
The children and I talked about our privilege and blessing to have homes with bedrooms where we wear our PJs. We considered what it would be like for those who don’t have homes and beds. Together we concluded that we were in the wonderful position to help others by donating to MCM, who are experts in helping those who are homeless.
In a very simple way, the children at our ELC are starting their journey of understanding social justice and becoming young people who engage with and serve the world around them. I am reminded of the very practical writing of James in the New Testament, ‘What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is useless.’ (James 2:14–17)
Carey ELC is noticing needs, showing empathy and putting their words into action. Well done!
Rebecca Gaskell
Junior School Chaplain
