St Joseph’s School, Port Lincoln acknowledges National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week...
On Thursday 26 May, the St Joseph’s School community gathered at St Mary of the Angel’s Catholic Church for a special liturgy to commemorate National Sorry Day and the start of Reconciliation Week.
The theme for the 2016 Reconciliation Week is:
‘Our History, Our Story, Our Future’.
Our History... reminds us of the commitment to ensure the wrongs of the past are not repeated in the future.
Our Story... encourages each and every one of us to make reconciliation and peace part of our own story.
Our Future... is the knowledge that we believe in fairness for everyone and as we grow together, the spirit of forgiveness lives in the hearts, minds and actions of all Australians.
The School was fortunate to have members of the Port Lincoln Aboriginal community with them to be part of our liturgy. Emmalene Richards and her son Kaiden provided a traditional Welcome to Country and Emmalene delivered a moving reflection about what Reconciliation means.
“Reconciliation is about Australians walking and working together and with an open heart and mind learning about our country’s histories, cultures and achievements, and to contribute to building a better, more inclusive Australia for all…. Reconciliation is moving forward together in sharing and learning so that we can live united as one in Kallinyalla (Port Lincoln) and continue to share the beauty of our ancient Yarda (land) and Wardana (sea).”
This very special celebration was a wonderful way to bring community members together to acknowledge the cause for justice and equality for all. The presence of Emmalene and Kaiden, along with their nephew and cousin Darnell Richards, certainly provided a greater element of understanding of Indigenous Australians and the cause for Reconciliation. As Emmalene stated,
“That was the most amazing morning being invited guests to St Joseph’s School for their liturgy - they have definitely raised the bar when it comes to respect for Indigenous people and their issues. This morning left us in awe as we were welcomed into their liturgy. It has definitely shown me how many positive changes are happening in our community and the great leaders that are driving that change are to be congratulated, you are paving the way for a better, more inclusive, caring community in Port Lincoln, well done."
Intergenerational playgroups are truly something special — an experience that enriches the lives of both the young and the older members of our community. These playgroups are more than just a space for children to play; they are a vital platform for different generations to come together, share wisdom, and build meaningful relationships.
