Father Jim's homily 'The Goulburn School Strike' reflects on a historical event where Catholic schools in Goulburn closed in protest against inadequate funding, leading to an overwhelmed state school system. This strike marked a significant influence of the Catholic Church in society, shaping the funding and policy landscape for Catholic schools in Australia. Father Jim connects this past with the present, discussing the evolving role of the Church and civil society in shaping public policy and societal values. He emphasizes the need for a prophetic voice in society, advocating for core values and social justice through collaboration with like-minded groups, like the Sydney Alliance. This Alliance, comprising various religious and social groups, exemplifies a collective voice influencing governmental policies for the common good. Father Jim encourages active participation in such alliances to uphold Catholic values and address broader societal issues.
Reflect on the following questions:
List 5 values which you think are important for our community and society today?
How does the Goulburn School Strike reflect the broader role of religious institutions in advocating for social and educational reforms? What are the implications of such advocacy in contemporary society?
Considering Father Jim's emphasis on the prophetic voice of the Church, how can modern religious organizations effectively engage with secular institutions to address current societal issues without compromising their core values?
In what ways can individual members of religious communities contribute to alliances like the Sydney Alliance, and what challenges might they face in aligning their personal beliefs with collective action for the common good?
Listen to the following song and reflect on these questions.
Rascal Flatts - I Won't Let Go
Keep Holding On - Avril Lavigne
Final Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before You today with hearts heavy for the world around us. In a world teeming with injustice and strife, we seek Your guidance to be bearers of Your light and love. Grant us the wisdom to see the world through Your eyes, where every soul is valued, and every voice is heard.
Lord, instill in us the courage to stand against injustice, to speak for those who have been silenced, and to care for those who are forgotten. Help us to remember that we are Your hands and feet on earth, called to bring hope to the hopeless and love to the unloved.
We pray for those who are tirelessly working towards social justice and equity. Bless their efforts, Lord, and multiply their impact. May their work not be in vain, but may it bring about real change in our communities, our nations, and our world.
Give us the strength to persist in the face of adversity, to keep fighting the good fight. Let us not be discouraged, but rather be inspired by Your unending love and grace. Help us to build bridges where there are walls, to sow peace where there is discord, and to shine Your light in the darkest of places.
As we strive to be advocates for change, let us also be ambassadors of Your compassion and mercy. Teach us to listen with understanding, to speak with kindness, and to act with integrity.
We ask all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who exemplifies the ultimate sacrifice for love and justice.
