It has been a successful 2024 year for Christian Service! In Term One, Young Vinnies hosted an Easter Egg Drive, collecting decorated Easter baskets of chocolates, which were later donated to needy families. At Loyola College, we focus not only on helping local communities but also on assisting global communities. Therefore, we place a strong focus on Caritas Project Compassion donations, raising funds to create opportunities for developing countries.

Term Two included a visit and tour of the Exodus Community - with members of Young Vinnies visiting and gaining insightful knowledge about the difficult reality of Australians living below the margin. In return, Vinnies and members of Exodus enjoyed a night of companionship with a dinner at Iggy’s Restaurant, hosted by our VET Hospitality students.

During the holidays, six students enjoyed Lunch with Seniors at Sacred Heart Parish, Diamond Creek. Students were able to play games and try their luck to win a game of Scrabble.

Term Three brought the highly anticipated St. Ignatius Day. The annual Walk for Others fundraiser was a huge success, as students and staff managed to smash the $30, 000 target, raising close to $40,000 for our six House charities. On 26 July, in celebration of the Feast Day of Saints Joachim and Anne, a Grandparents' Mass was held in the Old Loyola Chapel. We thank all the grandparents for attending and for the support they provide to their grandchildren during their schooling.

The annual winter Paying it Forward evening is set to run in place of the Winter Sleepout this term on the Friday, 30 August. This involves a barbecue dinner in West Heidelberg with the Exodus Community followed by a walk in the CBD guided by Brother Doug, to distribute necessities to those sleeping rough in the city.

Our chosen student of the fortnight is Blake Wheeler (9/FADB). Blake is involved in the Young Vinnies group, where he enthusiastically works with other students. Blake attended the Sacred Heart Luncheon with Seniors and also joined the Celebration of 50 Years of St Vincent De Paul Society event. Your efforts do not go unnoticed. Well done, Blake!

By Edan O'Dowd & Christiana Sison
2024 Christian Service Captains