Schools work to fill funding shortfall

September 7, 2017

Every second year, Anglican schools from across Victoria come together to worship at St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne.  The theme for this year’s service was ‘Your Kingdom Come’, with both staff and students reflecting on the positive impact Jesus and His followers have had on society throughout the centuries.

When considering how they can be a part of making God’s Kingdom come in the world today, students were inspired to dedicate the offering to people who are facing significant barriers in their lives. 

Clergy, staff and students outside St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne. © Mentone Grammar. Used with permission

As a number of Anglican school students attended the ABM Wontok conference at Shelford Girls Grammar earlier this year, they were motivated to give towards HIV education in Papua New Guinea. The special guest speaker for the Wontok conference, Roxanne Roberts from Anglicare PNG, described some of the challenges that had arisen from reductions in HIV services funding by the Australian government in 2016.

Altogether, the 28 Anglican schools raised an incredible $1380 during their worship service! This funding will be directed towards the ABM Adult Literacy program, which has ongoing education about HIV transmission/prevention and treatment with marginalised and vulnerable communities. This program also provides information on available HIV testing clinics, and works to de-stigmatise the disease and reduce discrimination of those affected in PNG.

Anglicare PNG expressed their deep gratitude for the offering, sending through a Certificate of Appreciation and photograph to all the Anglican schools that participated. You can view these here.

ABM would also like to say a massive THANK YOU to all the schools, for helping to address this significant barrier to joy in the lives of many!

Service underway in St Paul’s Cathedral. © Mentone Grammar. Used with permission