Religious Education News

October is Mission Month.  This is a special month of the year when we reflect, pray and act for people around the world that are not as blessed as we are in Australia.  This year our focus country is Thailand. 

Thailand is known as the 'Land of a Thousand Smiles', a country renowned as much for the warmth of its people as for the warmth of its weather. Thailand also exhibits staggering wealth inequality as well as a major centre for human trafficking of the poorer people.

The Good Shepherd Sisters have been supporting communities in need in Thailand for over 55 years, starting in Bangkok and eventually expanding their work to other provinces including Phuket and Chiang Rai.

The Sisters have a mission to build partnerships that promote the dignity and human rights of all, especially women and children.  Among the many programs run by the Sisters in the bustling capital of Bangkok is a kindergarten for children from an urban slum where many simply cannot afford to send their children to school.  The kindergarten offers two life-changing services for both local women and their children: firstly, the Sisters provide a loving education in a safe place, and secondly, this allows the parents to freely work and earn a living for their families without fear for their children’s safety.

During the Month of October students will learn about Thailand, where it is, and what life is like for children from Thailand, specifically those from slum areas in Bangkok, the bustling capital.  We will participate in a fundraising activity called ‘Socktober,’ where we encourage children to wear crazy socks and bring a gold coin donation. Money raised will be sent to assist the Good Shepherd Sisters in their mission.

Sue Benc