Last week the Year 10 students who were not involved in the work experience program, spent two days reflecting on current and historical events that remind us that social justice is something we can all contribute to.

The Youth Mission Team spent the first day with the students. The team engaged the Year 10s in games and role plays. This helped students to develop a realisation around the need to respond to injustice in the world by appreciating the uniqueness and dignity of every human. The team emphasised the need to appreciate and respect ourselves and those around us so that we can make a difference in the lives of others.

In some beautiful and creative performance through mimes, the team were able to show how Jesus was someone who championed the cause of the poor, marginalised and rejected. In seeing Jesus as a role model, students explored the commitment to service to others in terms of our Christian call.

Day 2 was a trip into Melbourne. This was an opportunity to experience the theme of social justice in a variety of ways. One group were able to walk the William Barak Bridge and learn about the story of Barak, who was an inspirational Aboriginal artist and activist. Another group visited the Immigration Museum focusing on the waves of migration and the struggles involved in settling into a new way of life, in a new country. Students also visited Hosier Lane and other Melbourne landmarks.

Finally, all students participated in a workshop at The Big Issue. The Big Issue is a magazine concept that supports homeless, marginalised and disadvantaged people by creating job opportunities aimed to build confidence, connection and ways to help people empower themselves. The students were inspired by hearing the stories of some of the Big Issue vendors.

The Big Issue offers several community programs including:

• Street Magazine Enterprise
• Women’s Workforce
• The Big Issue Classroom
• Community Street Soccer Program