On behalf of all here at BDC, let me wish you a holy and peaceful Easter!

Easter remembers and celebrates the central story of the Christian faith - the story of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It’s a story that takes us from the deeply intimate moments of Jesus at supper with his closest friends, to a stealthy arrest, a public trial and execution, before the quiet wonder of an empty tomb, and the joy of reunion with the risen Christ. It is a story in which joy cannot be separated from sorrow, nor grace from shame, nor love from risk. Each is deeply connected to the other.

This idea can be profoundly comforting, if you are sitting in sorrow, shame, grief, or vulnerability. Nothing, no matter how dark or awful, can separate us from God’s love - because God, in love, has already journeyed through the depths of suffering for and with us. If you find yourself in a dark place this Easter, I pray that the good news of new life will offer a little glimmer of hope.

On the other hand, knowing that darkness and light are so connected in the Christian story can be deeply confronting if you are currently living in a season of celebration or success. It calls us to recognise that we have not earned our comfortable lives, and we cannot rely on things always being this way. Instead, reflecting on our own vulnerability and the impact of our choices on others, we are called to act with humility and compassion, rather than pride and judgement. If you find yourself in a happy, bright place this Easter, I celebrate with you! But also ask you to remember those less fortunate than yourself, in your prayers and in loving action.

Blessings to you and those you love,

Reverend Lisa

Cultural Diversity

Cultural diversity encompasses the variety of cultures, beliefs, and traditions present globally, contributing to a rich tapestry of human experiences and perspectives. By valuing every child's cultural background, we enable them to excel in all facets of life. Nurturing an environment of curiosity, open-mindedness, and respect for all cultures, will to only promote unity but a deeper appreciation of the nuances that distinguish us.

Inclusion is about more than just words; it's about fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance for every child, regardless of their cultural background. When children and adolescents feel seen and valued for who they are, they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Valuing and understanding cultural diversity, helps our communities benefit from a wealth of perspectives and experiences, enhancing our collective capacity for empathy and innovation.

As parents and adult carers, instilling an appreciation for cultural diversity is vital to equip young people with the tools they need to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Through leading by example and showing that kindness and understanding knows no boundaries, we can encourage them to embrace multiculturalism. This will not only prepare young people for personal success, but also for contributing to a world that views diversity as a strength. Through collective efforts, we can help pave the way for a more accepting and vibrant future.

In this edition of SchoolTV, learn how best to embrace and celebrate cultural diversity with your children. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school wellbeing team for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your Edition https://bdc.nsw.schooltv.me/newsletter/cultural-diversity-au