Over the past two terms, our Year 9–12 students have been meeting in small groups every second week to work through the Civic Hospitality program. This series has explored what it means to build genuine hospitality and a sense of homeliness within our school community, while also tracing its deep biblical roots.
Students have reflected on how central hospitality is to the gospel, that God, through Jesus, has welcomed us into His family, even “while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8). Using themes such as walls, doors, and tables, we have looked at the Last Supper, the parable of the great banquet in Luke 14, and the call to open our lives and communities to others with the same radical welcome Christ has shown us.
To finish the program, our Year 9–12 students gathered in the courtyard for a special pancake breakfast. With chill tunes and a warm atmosphere, everyone enjoyed a delicious pancake and time together. Mr Engel and Mr Vermeer led us in a final reflection, tracing the hospitality of the gospel through Scripture and encouraging us to be a school that embodies radical, Christ-like love for our neighbours. It was a joyful and fitting way to celebrate what we’ve learnt, that true hospitality is more than sharing delicious food and good fellowship; it’s about opening our lives to others, just as God has welcomed us into life in Him.
Mr Liam Vermeer
Head Teacher – Biblical Studies
