Faith & Mission

Hearts that Listen, Hands that Act - Beyond the Classroom

In week 3 this term, our Year 10 students took part in a combined Retreat and Religious Education excursion day, stepping beyond the classroom to encounter different faith traditions, explore diverse perspectives and deepen their understanding of the importance of interfaith dialogue.

Guided by our 2026 College theme, Hearts that Listen, Hands that Act, the day was designed to encourage students to listen with curiosity, engage with openness and develop a deeper appreciation of the beliefs, values and experiences of others.

Our students visited three wonderful organisations, each offering a different opportunity for learning and encounter.

At the Islamic Museum of Australia, students explored the history, culture, beliefs and contributions of Muslim communities, gaining a greater understanding of Islam as one of the world's major Abrahamic faiths. At Coburg Islamic Centre, they were welcomed into a Muslim community center and place of worship, where they had the opportunity to learn about Islamic prayer, practices and traditions, and to ask questions in a welcoming and respectful environment.

The third experience was a Human Library facilitated by Together For Humanity, where students listened to personal stories and engaged in conversations that challenged assumptions, encouraged empathy and highlighted the importance of seeing the person behind the story.

While each experience was different, they shared an important purpose: to create opportunities for meaningful encounter, understanding and reflection

As a Catholic school, we believe that developing an understanding of other faiths and worldviews is an important part of educating young people to become thoughtful, compassionate and engaged members of society. Our Catholic tradition, particularly Nostra Aetate, encourages us to recognise what is true and good in other religions and to engage respectfully with people of different faith traditions.

Importantly, learning about others does not diminish or tarnish our own faith. In fact, encountering different beliefs and perspectives can deepen our own understanding, prompt us to reflect more meaningfully on what we believe and strengthen our appreciation of our Catholic identity.

We were incredibly proud of the way our Year 10 students engaged with each of our presenters—with curiosity, openness and respect.

Thank you, Year 10, for embracing the spirit of Hearts that Listen, Hands that Act. You did more than simply participate in the day's activities; you demonstrated a genuine willingness to listen, reflect and engage with your hearts as well as your minds.

We hope our students returned to the College with not only new knowledge, but also a greater appreciation of the richness of our diverse community and the important role each of us plays in building a more understanding, inclusive and compassionate world.

Hearts that Listen. Hands that Act.