During Lent we are asked to support Caritas Australia through their Annual Project Compassion Appeal.  At Mass and during class lessons the students will learn about our responsibility to reach out to assist others.  The theme this year is taken from Archbishop Oscar Romero who in recent times became a saint.  His quote 'aspire not to HAVE more but BE more' is the slogan found on this year's Project Compassion boxes that have been distributed to classroom and families.

This week's feature story form Week 4 of Lent is about Arsad from Indonesia.

Arsad, an Indonesian farmer, had no toilet in his home, so he had to walk into the forest to the open defecation area, even at night or in the rain.

Around 17 percent of Indonesia’s rural population practice open defecation , with many unaware that it contributes to spreading diseases.

Arsad’s family was often sick and open defecation caused neighbourhood disputes. With the support of Caritas Australia and its partner, Laz Harfa, he took part in hygiene, sanitation and financial management training. He decided to fund the building of a toilet in his house and facilitated others in his neighbourhood to save up for toilets.

Now, Arsad and his family are healthier and have reduced their medical expenses. Their community no longer practices open defecation and is more harmonious. A community event, called ‘Declaration of Open Defecation-Free’ was even held to acknowledge their achievements.

Maybe in your home you might think about how you could raise your child's awareness of how they might in some small way contribute a donation to Project Compassion through an act of generosity, forgoing a treat or getting paid for a chore.

More information can be found at: https://lent.caritas.org.au/