National Reconciliation Week - 27 May to 3 June

The National Reconciliation Week (NRW) 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present, and future. Bridging Now to Next calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead. For Catholics, the very nature of God is pure love, and in the example of Jesus, who modelled the love of the Father, we are compelled to engage in the journey of justice and reconciliation in support of the Uluru Statement From the Heart towards healing past hurts.

“All relationships include giving and receiving, inviting and responding, and the fruits of our connections together grow and deepen through our response-ability to each other.” (Common Grace)

Living fully, in communion with one another is at the core of who we are as Christians, and National Reconciliation Week provides an excellent opportunity to explore how we can contribute to achieving reconciliation.

National Reconciliation Week - At Holy Cross

As we reflect on the events of Reconciliation Week 2025, it is fair to say that our school community embarked on a meaningful journey of learning, reflection, and connection. The National Reconciliation Week 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present, and future. This week has served as a vital reminder of our shared commitment to fostering respect, understanding, and unity.

Monday Prayer – Led by 4C.

We began the week with a heartfelt prayer session led by our talented Year 4C students. Through thoughtful words and reflections, they set the tone for the week, calling us to embrace reconciliation with open hearts and minds. Their leadership exemplifies the spirit of inclusivity and respect that underpins this important week.

Learning Experience with Lloyd Biehler, a friend of Holy Cross

Year 4 and Year 5 students had a unique opportunity to learn directly from Lloyd Biehler, a friend of Holy Cross. Through storytelling and shared wisdom, they explored the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These interactive sessions provided an invaluable perspective on history and reconciliation, deepening our students' understanding of their role in building a more united future.

Library Sessions – Our Uniform: Our Place of belonging, Our Story.

Reconciliation is not just a concept—it is woven into the fabric of our school, quite literally. This week the students engaged in library sessions that shared the powerful stories behind the images on our new school uniform. The uniform design reminds us of the land on which our school stands.

Understanding the meaning behind these images helps our students to foster a deeper appreciation for the significance of the connections we all share, reminding us to be stewards of the land. In the coming weeks, classes will continue to investigate these images to ensure students have the opportunity to develop a stronger personal connection with the narrative of the school, focusing on Bridging Now to Next.

‘ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY’ Holy Cross Student Pledge

We promise to be stewards of this land.

We will look after the plants and animals.

We will take care of all the people who learn, play, work and pray here,

and create an environment of understanding, welcoming and belonging for all.

Buddy Activities – Working Together for Change

Collaboration and reflection were the focus of our buddy activities, where students partnered up to explore the importance of reconciliation. Through shared discussions, creative projects, and teamwork, students embraced the message that reconciliation is an ongoing process—one that requires listening, learning, and a commitment to positive change.

As we journey through Reconciliation Week, we recognise that every conversation, every shared experience, and every act of respect brings us one step closer to a future built on understanding and unity. Let’s continue to walk together in reconciliation, ensuring that the lessons learned this week extend far beyond the classroom and into our everyday lives.

Together, we can make a difference.