Catholic Outlook Magazine Ordinary Time Spring Edition 2022

It's an experience that the school community of St
Andrews College at Marayong can relate to. With
over a dozen nationalities at the school at any one
time, the school comes together to celebrate with
a ‘Unity Day’ celebration, also attended by around
1,000 family members. At the event, students can
showcase their culture in music, dance, clothing,
food, sport and more. Leader of Learning Music
and Performance, Antonio Chiapetta, sees not only
the enjoyment it brings the students, but also the
confidence and school spirit it fosters.
“Students realise it’s cool to embrace their story, and
perhaps share their vulnerability,” he says. “It’s great
to see them comfortable in their own skin.”
Manager - Catholic Youth Parramatta, Qwayne
Guevara sees the impact of accepting our cultural
heritage in her work with young people’s faith.
“When we embrace our multicultural reality, we send
a message that faith is not just for a few, but for all,”
she says.
“This is important in our work in youth ministry. We
want each young person to know that they belong
- in all that they are, even in the way their culture
expresses faith, builds community, and engages in
service and mission.”
Tips to help your
children embrace their
cultural heritage:
• Be patient – make your culture
accessible to your children.
• There may be culturally-based activity
groups in your community your child
might enjoy – check them out.
• Understand where your child is at
developmentally. From ages 9 to 13,
children are finding out who they are. At
this age they tend to be resistant to lots
of things, including pressure to conform
to the family. Don’t worry, it’s a natural
stage of child development.
• Be proud yourself – set an example of
living your cultural heritage with pride.
Students at St Andrews Marayong celebrate their
cultural heritage at their annual Unity Day celebration
Image: St Andrews Marayong