We are often reminded of the phrase, act local, think global. At Mt Carmel Catholic College Varroville this phrase is being put into action in a Christ-centred way that fosters a sense of community and nurtures a culture of service through initiatives that promote stewardship and care for our Common Home.

The Christ’s Hands On Earth initiative is an ongoing environmental program that is all about putting the responsibility of looking after the environment in student hands. Its name is inspired by St Teresa of Avila’s famous call to action: “Christ has no body now but yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours.” In this way, we can act local, and think global within our own community.

At present, student engagement has been outstanding, with students from Year 7 to Year 12 getting involved. It is an exciting opportunity for students to show initiative and demonstrate their leadership skills and appreciation of the wider community. To be good Christians and good citizens, as St Marcellin calls us to be, we must remember that we are Christ’s hands on earth. St Francis’ prayer succinctly captures the beauty and hope that exists as a result of service to others service to others: “Lord make Me an instrument of Your peace / Where there is hatred let me sow love.”