St. Kilian's Mindful Moment - T1W10

T1W10 - Solidarity

Solidarity is about standing together as a community to support those in need, recognising our shared responsibility to create a just and fair world. Through Caritas K’s, we walk in support of those who travel long distances for essentials, raising funds for Caritas to help provide life-changing resources and opportunities to vulnerable communities.

Acknowledgment of Country

This week, you might like to invite students to create or say their own Acknowledgement of Country.

Using the sentence starters below, students can reflect on what they are thankful for, the promise they wish to make, and what they value about Dja Dja Wurrung Country. This helps make the Acknowledgement personal, respectful, and meaningful.

St. Kilian's Acknowledgment of Country

We would like to acknowledge the Jaara people, the traditional custodians of the land on which we are meeting today, we acknowledge ancestors and elders past, present and emerging and commit ourselves to work actively for reconciliation and justice.

Choose your own...

We would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land we are on today, the Dja Dja Wurrung people.

We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and future.

We thank them for ______________________________________.

Today, we promise to ____________________________________.

We are grateful to walk, learn, and play on this ______________________ land.

Here are some examples you might use:

Thanking them for: sharing their knowledge, caring for Country, welcoming us

Promise to: care for the land, learn about culture, treat nature with respect, invite all with open arms, help others who come to this country/land

Describe the land as: special, sacred, strong, beautiful, ancient, peaceful, friendly, open

Prayer

Centering

A quiet moment to pause, breathe, and bring our hearts and minds into God’s presence, preparing ourselves to pray with focus, gratitude, and openness.

Centering

Take a moment to settle into stillness. Gently close your eyes.

Take a deep breath in… and slowly breathe out.

Again, breathe in deeply, filling your lungs… and exhale, releasing any tension.

As you breathe, imagine God’s love surrounding you—warm, steady, and constant.

Breathe in His peace… and breathe out any worries.
Breathe in His presence… and breathe out distractions.
Breathe in His love… and let go of anything weighing you down.

With each breath, feel yourself resting in His care, knowing you are held, known, and deeply loved.

Now, take one more deep breath in… and as you exhale, gently open your eyes, bringing this peace with you into the rest of your day.

Reflection

A quiet moment to pause, listen, and open our hearts to God, allowing His presence to guide our thoughts, deepen our faith, and inspire us to live with love and kindness.

Solidarity - what does it mean?

Solidarity is at the heart of Project Compassion, reminding us that we are one human family, called to stand with those in need. Through our support and fundraising efforts, we walk alongside vulnerable communities, providing resources, hope, and opportunities for a better future. By participating in Caritas K’s, we take a step—both physically and spiritually—towards justice, showing that our actions, no matter how small, can create lasting change. Together, we embody the love and compassion of Christ, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Water is something we often take for granted, but for many people around the world, it’s not always easy to get. Caritas Australia works to bring clean water, education, and support to communities like Ditosa’s, helping them build a better future. Our actions—like raising money for Project Compassion—can make a real difference. Let’s think about how we can help and be grateful for the things we have.

This video will help us understand what life is like for her and her community, especially when it comes to getting something as simple—but essential—as clean water.

Before Watching:

“Think about how you use water every day. Where does it come from? How do you get it?”
“Now, imagine if you had to walk for a long time every day just to collect water for drinking, cooking, and washing. How would that change your day?”
“As you watch, pay attention to what Ditosa’s life is like. How is it different from yours? What challenges does she face? And how does Caritas Australia help her?”

During the Video:
(After key moments, you may pause briefly to ask questions or emphasise important points.)

When Ditosa walks to collect water:
“Look at how far she has to go just to get water! How do you think this would feel?”
When Caritas Australia helps Ditosa’s community:
“Did you see how their help is making life better? What do you think is changing?”

After Watching – Discussion Questions:

“What was the biggest challenge Ditosa faced in the video?”
“How did Caritas Australia support her and her community?”
“How would you feel if you had to walk that far every day just to get water?”
“What can we do to help others who don’t have easy access to clean water?”

Offering

A moment to open our hearts to God, whether in asking for guidance, strength, and help or in giving thanks for His blessings, love, and presence in our lives.

Think about what you just learned about solidarity. How can we help others feel included, supported, and treated fairly? Use the prompts below to help shape your prayer.

Thanksgiving prompts

Thank You, God, for giving me…
Thank You, God, for helping me…
Thank You, God, for the people who…
Thank You, God, for the beauty of…
Thank You, God, for the lessons I learn when…
Thank You, God, for always…
Thank You, God, for the moments when…
Thank You, God, for the strength to…
Thank You, God, for Your love that…
Thank You, God, for the joy of…

Asking prompts

Please, God, help me to…
Please, God, give me the courage to…
Please, God, guide me when…
Please, God, help me to be more…
Please, God, show me how to…
Please, God, help me to forgive…
Please, God, remind me to…
Please, God, be with me when…
Please, God, give me the wisdom to…
Please, God, teach me to…

Regular prayers

God, please watch over and heal those who are sick, especially…
I am thankful for the love and support of my family and friends, especially…
Lord, help those who are feeling lonely or sad to know they are loved, including…
God, please give strength and courage to people who are facing difficult times, such as…
Thank you for the beauty of creation and the many blessings in my life, like…

Prayer

SIGN OF THE CROSS PRAYER | Learn to Make the Sign of the Cross!

Let's pray the SIGN OF THE CROSS with Tomkin the Catholic Cowboy.

A simple and beautiful way to bless ourselves reminding us of Christ's love.

Our Father Prayer

Our Father, Who art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name.

Thy Kingdom come.

Thy Will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil. Amen.

Five Finger Prayer - a guided prayer, helping to think wider than themselves

Hail Mary

Hail Mary,

Full of Grace,

The Lord is with thee.

Blessed art thou among women,

and blessed is the fruit

of thy womb, Jesus.

Holy Mary,

Mother of God,

pray for us sinners now,

and at the hour of our death.

Amen.

Hail Mary for Children in Song

A fun way for kids to learn the Hail Mary with song.

Mary, Our Heavenly Mother, Pray for Us! | Let's Pray with Tomkin

Let's pray the HAIL MARY with Tomkin the Catholic Cowboy. A most beautiful prayer to honor Our Lady, the Mother of God! Mary, Our Heavenly Mother, Pray for Us!

St. Kilian's School Prayer

Father,

We believe that St Kilian’s School is a great place to learn and have fun.

We trust our school community will continue to welcome new members and will always help

and care for each other.

We thank you for the love and respect of our families, teachers and friends.

With Jesus as our model, may we grow to be the best people we can.

Amen.

Songs from Opening Mass

These Hands - St. Kilian's.mp4

These Hands - Andrew Chinn (St. Kilian's Version)

Open My Heart - Jesse Manibusan

Fill Us Up - Rob Galea

Go Now in Peace - Andrew Chinn

PBIS

St. Kilian's Routines

This week, our Positive Behaviour Blitz at school is all about “Moving Safely.” We are learning the importance of being respectful, responsible, and safe in how we move in our school, inside and outside.

Moving safely means using our bodies, voices, and choices to make sure everyone stays happy, calm, and free from harm when we are walking to a new place — whether that’s inside the classroom, to another learning space, or out in the yard.

One of our most important safety rules is: No running in the junior area.
This includes the spaces outside the Paderborn buildings and near the junior playground. Walking in these areas keeps everyone safe, prevents trips and falls, and makes sure younger students feel comfortable and confident when moving around.

When we move safely, we are showing our school values:

Respectful – We give others space, move quietly, and don’t disturb learning or play.
Responsible – We follow the teacher’s directions, stay with our group, and look after our own safety and the safety of others.
Safe – We walk in the right areas (especially the junior area), keep our hands and feet to ourselves, and move in a way that prevents accidents.

When everyone moves safely, we can enjoy our learning and play without anyone getting hurt.

SKPS Student Movement (Inside the Classroom).pdf

Student Movement (Inside)

This routine is used anytime students need to move around within the classroom (e.g., from mat to table, or into groups).

It keeps the classroom calm and safe, helps everyone know what to do, and stops confusion or rushing.

Movement Inside the Classroom (Short Version)

Ready in Five
Listen for when, what, and who will move
Move silently and safely when told
Stay focused and listen for the next instruction

SKPS Student Movement (Outside the Classroom).pdf

Student Movement (Outside)

This routine is for times when students move out of the classroom (e.g., to specialists, Mass, assembly).

It shows respect to others, keeps everyone together and safe, and helps the class arrive at places calmly and on time.

Movement Outside the Classroom (Short Version)

Ready in Five
Line up in two quiet lines
Stay with the person in front of you
Walk quietly and respectfully
Stop when asked and listen carefully

SKPS Ready in Five.docx

Ready in Five

‘Ready in Five’ is a consistent teacher prompt used to gain students' full attention before giving instructions or starting a lesson.

The teacher stands in a central position, counts down from five while scanning the room, and waits for 100% of students to respond and make eye contact. It teaches students to stop, look, and listen, creating a calm and focused transition into learning.

SKPS Classroom Entry.docx

Classroom Entry

The Classroom Entry Routine sets clear expectations for how students enter the room after breaks or transitions.

Students line up in pairs, enter quietly, stand or sit in their spot, and wait with eyes on the teacher before being greeted and seated. It promotes calm, safe, and respectful beginnings to lessons, helping students settle quickly for learning.

SKPS Clasroom Exit.docx

Classroom Exit

The Classroom Exit Routine guides students in leaving the room calmly and respectfully at the end of a lesson or day.

Students pack up quietly, stand behind their desks, respond to the teacher's farewell, and are dismissed row by row. It ensures a smooth and safe transition, reinforcing gratitude, order, and readiness for what comes next.

Problem Solving

Sometimes, problems at school—whether with friends, classmates, or learning—can feel tricky to solve on your own. That’s why your teachers are here! If something is making you upset, confused, or unsure, asking a teacher for help can make a big difference.

- Teachers can help you:
  🔹 Find fair and kind ways to solve conflicts.
  🔹 Give advice on making good choices.
  🔹 Support you when you feel worried or frustrated.
  🔹 Make sure everyone feels safe and respected.

Asking for help is a smart and strong thing to do. You don’t have to handle everything alone—your teacher is here to listen and support you!

When something is wrong poster.pdf

At St. Kilian's, we have a visual to help teach and remind us of what we can do when something is bothering us.

If something is bothering us we can;

Keep doing what I am doing.
- This means to stay focussed on what I am doing. If that doesn't work, then try the next step.
I can move away.
- This might mean moving away in another space in the room, or moving to a whole another new space.
- This could also mean moving to another group of people.
- If this doesn't work, then try the next step.
I can ask an adult for help.
- If the first two steps didn't work, then you can ask an adult to help you solve your problem.

Hands On

At St. Kilian’s, we keep our hands and feet to ourselves to make sure everyone feels safe and respected. If a hands-on incident happens (like pushing, hitting, or grabbing), here’s what will happen:

A teacher will step in to stop the situation and check that everyone is okay.
The incident will be reported to all staff and Mr. Teggelove and Mr. Podosky so they can follow up.
Parents will be informed about what happened.
A consequence will be given - 1 break off the yard
A restorative conversation will take place to help you understand what happened, why it wasn’t okay, and how to handle things better next time.

Our goal is to help everyone feel safe and supported while learning how to make positive choices and solve problems without using hands-on behaviour. If you ever feel unsafe, always talk to a teacher or trusted adult!

Special Events

CARITAS K's

Caritas K’s is a powerful way for our school community to walk in solidarity with those who travel long distances every day for water, food, and education. By participating in this event, we step into the shoes of those facing hardship, raising awareness and funds to support Caritas Australia’s life-changing work. Every step we take helps bring hope, dignity, and practical support to communities in need. Together, we show that small actions, done with great love, can make a big difference.

Why CARITAS K's?

Why do you think we are participating in Caritas K’s? What is the purpose of this event?
Encourages students to think about the meaning behind their participation.

What does the word ‘solidarity’ mean to you? How do you think walking together in Caritas K’s shows solidarity with others?
Introduces the concept of solidarity in a relatable way.

What challenges do people in some communities face when trying to access basic needs like water, food, or education?
Encourages students to think about the real-world issues that Caritas supports.

How do you think walking in Caritas K’s will help us understand what others experience?
Prepares students to engage with empathy and purpose.

How can we use this event to make a difference beyond just walking? What actions can we take?
Encourages students to think beyond the event and reflect on how they can continue supporting others.

Prayers of the Faithful – CARITAS K's

Leader:
As we gather in God’s love, let us offer our prayers for those in need, trusting in His mercy and grace.

For the Church – That we may always stand in solidarity with those who are poor, oppressed, and vulnerable, and be a voice of justice and compassion in the world.
Lord, hear us.
Lord, hear our prayer.
For those in need – That through the work of Caritas and Project Compassion, communities facing hardship will receive the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Lord, hear us.
Lord, hear our prayer.
For our school community – That we may be moved to act with generosity and love, walking together in faith and service to bring hope to those in need.
Lord, hear us.
Lord, hear our prayer.
For all who suffer injustice – That through our commitment to Project Compassion, we may work towards a world where dignity, fairness, and peace are upheld for all.
Lord, hear us.
Lord, hear our prayer.
For strength in our mission – That God will bless our fundraising efforts, inspire our hearts to give freely, and remind us that even small acts of kindness can create great change.
Lord, hear us.
Lord, hear our prayer.
For those who have gone before us – That they may now rest in the loving presence of God, and that we may continue their legacy of faith and service.
Lord, hear us.
Lord, hear our prayer.

Leader:
Loving God, hear the prayers of Your people and guide us to be instruments of Your love. May our actions reflect Your call to serve, and may our hearts remain open to the needs of others. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Project Compassion

Project Compassion is about helping people who don’t have what they need to live a happy and healthy life. It’s a special project that raises money to give food, water, shelter, and education to people in different parts of the world. When we take part in Project Compassion, we are showing kindness and care for others, just like Jesus teaches us to do.

Sisilia from Tanzania

This year through Project Compassion, we meet Sisilia, a 13-year-old girl from Tanzania whose life has changed through access to clean water. Previously, Sisilia spent hours each day collecting unsafe water, often missing school and feeling exhausted. Through the support of Caritas Australia, clean water is now available close to her home and school.

This simple but powerful change means Sisilia can attend school regularly, stay healthy, and focus on her dream of becoming a pilot. Her story reminds us that even small acts of generosity can create life-changing opportunities for others.

Class Discussion

What made life hard for Sisilia and her family?
How did the A+ Successor Project and Caritas Australia help?
Why did Sisilia find it hard to complete her schoolwork?
What has Sisilia learnt through the SWASH Club?
What does Sisilia dream of becoming, and why?
How will you share Sisilia’s story with others?

Monoranjon from Bangladesh

Monoranjon lives in a village in Bangladesh close to the sea, where floods and storms often damage his crops and his home. With support from Project Compassion, he learnt climate-resilient farming techniques and new ways to diversify his income, helping his family survive and build a safer, more sustainable future.

Class Discussion

What is Monoranjon’s job?
What is making farming difficult for Monoranjon?
How did Caritas Australia and Caritas Bangladesh help?
Why did Monoranjon learn to farm fish, prawns and crabs?
What new skills did Monoranjon learn?
How will you share Monoranjon’s story with others?

Manaini from Fiji

Life was hard for Manaini and her children living in rural Fiji. With the support from Caritas Australia’s partner, FRIEND, she learnt food processing and gardening skills, improving nutrition and creating new income opportunities to support her children’s education.

The family lived from what they grew, but meals were plain and often lacked nutrition. Store food was too expensive. At night, the village was in darkness, leaving children and the elderly unsafe.

Almost one quarter of Fiji’s population live in poverty, and rates are higher in rural villages. Any extra income can mean the difference between children completing school, being able to buy medicine, or simply managing daily costs. This is what poverty looks like in rural Fiji – every dollar counts.

Class Discussion

How did Manaini earn money for her family before joining the FRIEND program?
How did Caritas Australia and the FRIEND program help her?
What new skills did Manaini learn?
Why is it important for people to learn new skills?
What has earning more money meant for Manaini and her family?
How could you share Manaini’s story with others?

Prayer

As we learn about Manaini’s life and the work of Caritas, we are reminded that our faith calls us to care for others around the world. In this activity, students will write Prayers of the Faithful for Manaini, her family, her community, and others who may need support.

Instructions

Explain that Prayers of the Faithful are prayers where we ask God to help people in need.
Students write one or more prayers for:
- - Manaini and her family
  - Her community
  - People who need opportunities or support
Gather the class together for a short time of prayer.Invite students to read their prayers aloud.

Reflection Questions

Why is it important to pray for people in other parts of the world?
How can prayer help us care for others?
Besides praying, what are other ways we can help people like Manaini?

Catholic Social Teaching

Catholic Social Teaching helps us learn how to live like Jesus. It teaches us to love others, be kind, share what we have, and stand up for what is right. It reminds us that every person is important and deserves to be treated with respect.

We learn this through these key ideas:

Human Dignity – Every person is special and important
The Common Good – We work together so everyone is cared for
Participation – Everyone belongs and has a voice
Preferential Option for the Poor – We care for people who need help the most
Solidarity – We are one big family and stand together
Subsidiarity – We make fair choices close to where people are affected
Stewardship (Care for Creation) – We look after our world

Catholic Social Teaching

In this video, we learn something really special: God made the whole world, and every single person in it — including you! That means we are all part of one big family, no matter where we live or what we look like.

The video teaches us that Jesus wants us to look after one another. Some people don’t have as much food, clean water, or a safe place to live, and Jesus asks us to care for them first. When we help others, we are showing God’s love.

We also learn that the world is our home — our common home — and we have to take good care of it. That means looking after plants, animals, the oceans, and the land, so everyone can enjoy God’s creation.

The video reminds us to be fair, to share what we have, to stand up for people who are being treated badly, and to work together to make the world a better place.

When we do these things — when we are kind, caring, fair, and brave — we are living just like Jesus taught us. And even small actions from kids like you can make a big difference in the world.

Reflection Questions

1. We Are All One Family

Who are some people you think of when you hear the word family?
How can we show kindness to people who are far away or different from us?

2. Helping People in Need

What is one small thing you could do today to help someone who might be having a hard time?
Why do you think Jesus wants us to look after people who are struggling?

3. Fairness and Justice

Have you ever seen something that wasn’t fair? What happened?
What could you do if you see someone being treated unfairly at school?

4. Caring for God’s Creation

What is one way you can take care of the earth this week?
Why do you think God wants us to protect the world?

5. Sharing and Working Together

What is something you are good at sharing?
How does working together make life better for everyone?

Lent

During Lent, we are called to deepen our relationship with Jesus through three key practices: Fasting, Almsgiving, and Prayer. Below are some different ways you might explore these practices during Lent. You might like to use these practices in your daily routines.

What is Lent?

Lent: A Time of Renewal

On Ash Wednesday we begin the season of Lent. Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal as we prepare for Easter. It lasts for 40 days, reminding us of Jesus’ time in the desert, where He fasted and prayed. During Lent, we are called to deepen our relationship with Jesus through three key practices: Fasting, Almsgiving, and Prayer.

Fasting: More than just giving up food, fasting is about making space for God. This could mean reducing screen time, cutting back on unnecessary spending, or letting go of habits that distract from faith.

Almsgiving: Lent is a time to be generous and serve others. You might donate to a charity, support a parish initiative, or simply offer time to someone in need. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Prayer: Deepen your connection with Jesus by setting aside time for prayer each day. This could include reading Scripture, attending Mass, praying the Rosary, or keeping a gratitude journal focused on God’s blessings.

Almsgiving (Charity) - Sharing with Others

Donate clothes, toys, or books to someone in need.
Give money or food to a local charity, food bank, or mission.
Offer to help a neighbour or family member without being asked.
Share your time by visiting someone who is lonely or writing a kind note to a friend.
Participate in school or parish fundraising efforts for those in need.
Do extra chores at home and donate your allowance to a good cause.
Be generous with kind words and encouragement to others.
Offer to sit with someone new at lunch or include them in a game.
Pray for people who are struggling, especially those without food or shelter.

Fasting – Sacrificing to Grow in Self-Discipline

Give up sweets, snacks, or soft drinks and offer that sacrifice to God.
Avoid video games or TV for a day and spend time helping others instead.
Skip complaining and choose gratitude instead.
Fast from unnecessary screen time and use the time for family or prayer.
Give up negative thoughts or gossip and focus on kind words.
Eat simpler meals and remember those who don’t have enough food.
Walk or bike instead of taking the car, appreciating God’s creation.
Avoid wasting food or water and be mindful of how you use resources.
Take a break from buying new things and appreciate what you already have.

Prayer – Talking and Listening to God

Begin and end the day with a short prayer of thanks.
Say a prayer before meals, even silently.
Spend a few moments in quiet reflection or meditation each day.
Pray for family, friends, and those in need, including people you struggle with.
Read a Bible verse and think about how it applies to your life.
Write a list of things you are grateful for and thank God for them.
Create a prayer jar, writing down intentions and offering them to God.
Attend Mass or a prayer service with family or school.
Pray a decade of the Rosary or another simple prayer form.
Try journaling your prayers or drawing a picture to express your thoughts to God.

Lenten Prayer

This Lent Prayer is a reflection on the season of Lent, focusing on growing closer to God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It begins with centering oneself in God’s presence and encourages self-discipline, kindness, and spiritual growth. The prayer includes Prayers of the Faithful, asking for strength, forgiveness, and gratitude, reminding us to be our best selves and to prepare our hearts for Easter.

Click on the picture to the left, or the link above to access the prayer.

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