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. 

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?”

Prayers of the Faithful – Solidarity & Project Compassion

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

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. 

Ready in Five

Description

• A structured approach to gaining the full attention of the whole class (or school) at the beginning of a lesson or any teacher instruction.

When to Use

• Use Ready in Five at the beginning of any teacher instruction or when you need the class’s full attention.

SEQUENCE

1. Introduce the Routine
   Explain to students that you have a specific way to gain their attention when giving instructions.

2. Position Yourself

   • Before speaking, stand in a central position where all students can see you clearly.

3. Verbal Instruction
   Say: "Ready in Five."

   • Use a hand signal, raising five fingers and counting down visually while pausing and scanning the room.

4. Wait for Full Attention

   • If all students are listening: Acknowledge their response with a positive prompt, e.g.,
     “I know you are listening when you are looking at me. Thank you.”

   • If students are not fully attentive:

     • Name any student who is not focused and wait for their attention.

     • Once they are ready, thank them and continue.

SCRIPT

Teacher:
"I am going to explain a new signal called Ready in Five that we will use to get everyone’s attention.

Whenever I use this signal, I need you to stop what you are doing and focus on me so I can give instructions."

"I will say: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, ready? and use my fingers to count down. Your response will be: Ready.

I will know you are listening when you are looking at me and ready for the next instruction."

"Let’s practise."

Teacher: "5, 4, 3, 2, 1, ready?" (raises hand to count down)
Students: "Ready."

Teacher:
"Let’s try that again."

Teacher: "5, 4, 3, 2, 1, ready?"
Students: "Ready."

Teacher:
"Great! Now, every time I say 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, ready?, no matter what you are doing, you will stop, say Ready, and look at me.

Remember, I will know you are ready when you are looking at me."