More than 60 secondary students from Catholic Schools Diocese of Parramatta (CSPD), gathered at Our Lady of Lourdes, Seven Hills in October for the annual Social Justice Statement launch for students.
Each year the Australian Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ACBC) issues a major Social Justice Statement reflecting on the current, social, economic and ecological challenges. The 2023-2024 statement is titled: Listen, Learn, Love: A New Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Held in partnership with the Diocese of Parramatta’s Mission Enhancement Team (MET) – Peace, Justice, Ecology Team, the launch was attended by Year 9 students with guest speakers including Bishop Vincent Long and Executive Director of Schools Jack De Groot.
The aim of the launch was for students to gain a better understanding of what the social justice statement is and to work together to consider how they can take action in their schools.
Released in August 2023, the statement reads:
At the heart of this year’s Social Justice Statement is a call for all the People of God to embrace a new engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, an engagement which involves a commitment to listen to our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sisters and brothers and to learn from them. This listening and learning and the actions which flow from them must be grounded in a spirit of love if there is to be a change for the better.
“This statement is very different from those in the past. Much of the preparation was spent listening to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in major cities and regional areas. From Canberra to the Kimberleys, Sydney to Wadeye in the NT, and Melbourne to Cherbourg in Queensland,” Bishop Long said at the official launch in August.
“One of the objectives of this statement is that we want Catholics to understand that Catholic Social Teaching and Catholic social action are not simply theoretical and academic exercises. We hear what God is saying to us about justice by being with our sisters and brothers on the peripheries of society.”
At the student event, Executive Director of Schools Jack de Groot spoke about reconciliation and encouraged students to feel empowered by their opportunity to create change.
“I think back to my experience of being a fifteen-year-old and the thing that mattered to me about Catholicism and Christianity was about doing something practical in the world and that has continued throughout my life because faith is about action,” said Jack.
“Our school communities are led by students who want a just society, who want to make firm amend, not to be stuck in saying ‘sorry’ but understanding it so that we move to action,” he said. “Social Justice statements are about the Australia we will create and it is about you being empowered to create it.”
In reflecting on her experience of the day Catherine McAuley Westmead student Aaliyah Johnston, said she felt strengthened in her resolve to see change.
“We spoke about empowering the voice of all people no matter their race or beliefs,” she said. “I connected with the painful stories of Indigenous people which I heard at the launch and believe the Social Justice statement to Listen, Learn, Love can create a more united and strong community where justice can be met and we can learn from our mistakes.”
Year 9 student Jake Meredith from Emmaus Catholic College Kemps Creek added that listening and sharing resonated with him.
“The day was a great day to learn about what we can do better to help,” he said. “It is a really good opportunity to hear others' opinions and listen to their stories.”
For St Clare’s Catholic High School Hassall Grove student Reuben, the message was simple, “We can make a change.”
Olivia O'Connor
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
-
17 Jun 2026
Try a Career Day @ CathWest Loyola Campus
Year 10, are you curious about trying a career...? Register for CathWest's 'Try a Career Day' at the CathWest Loyola Campus!
Instagram | Gilroy
More News
10 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Our Year 11 Health and Movement Science students recently visited the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE) for an exciting day of hands-on learning and practical application. Students explored how the body and mind work together in movement and performance, investigating aerobic and anaerobic energy systems through engaging activities and exercise testing protocols. In ACPE’s state-of-the-art performance gym, they examined exercise prescription principles and analysed the body’s response to physical activity. This valuable experience provided real-world insights into sports science and training principles, helping students connect classroom theory with practical performance and preparation for future study pathways. #acpe #healthmovementscience
09 Jun 2026
From Facebook
The recent Walkathon on Gilroy Day demonstrated the incredible generosity and community spirit of our College community in supporting Beecroft House. Thanks to the kindness of students, families and staff, we were able to contribute not only monetary donations but also essential items including toiletries, basic food supplies and cleaning products. In total, 15 boxes of donated goods were delivered to the shelter. Gilroy Catholic College students Eva, Antonia, Hannah, Candace, Zac, Keira and Isabella proudly represented the College as they delivered the donations and spent time visiting with some of the women at Beecroft House. The students conducted themselves with dignity, compassion and respect, gaining valuable insights and lessons from their visit. We are grateful to everyone who contributed and helped make a positive difference in the lives of others. Eva, on behalf of the other students reflected: “The trip to Beecroft house was eye opening and inspiring. The women who reside at Beecroft house are truly amazing women and are vital and valued individuals in our society, yet have faced troubles in their life which have seen them seeking Beecroft’s support. It is a remarkable opportunity for us to not only support Beecroft house in ensuring that these women have access to essentials like food and toiletries, but also little luxuries that can brighten their day. While we were at the house we spoke with some of the women and they expressed the significance of the community's support and the hardships they and other women at the house have faced. This experience was confronting in the way it really brought us face-to-face to the issues that prevail in our society. The visit to Beecroft house tremendously inspired all of us to support those in need and connect with individuals who face displacement in our community.” Congratulations Gilroy! #GilroyDay #CommunitySpirit #BeecroftHouse #FaithInAction #GilroyCatholicCollege
08 Jun 2026
From Facebook
05 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Recently, Alyssa & Caitlyn competed at the NSWCCC Netball trials held at Netball Central. With more than 350 students competing for selection, the standard was exceptionally high and every athlete gave their all. We are incredibly proud to congratulate Alyssa & Caitlyn on their outstanding achievement of being selected for the NSWCCC Netball team. Their talent, determination, and hard work truly stood out among a very competitive field. It is a remarkable accomplishment to have two students from the same school selected in the team, and we couldn’t be prouder of their success. We wish Alyssa & Caitlyn the very best as they progress to the next level of competition!
05 Jun 2026
From Facebook
04 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Gilroy Catholic College students recently took part in a Volunteer Mission Day at the local food bank, as part of the Mary Mackillop Awards Program, making a real difference in the lives of individuals and families across our communities. Together, they moved an incredible 16,828kg of food — enough to help create approximately 29,310 meals for those doing it tough. We congratulate our amazing students on their dedication, teamwork, and generosity in supporting those less fortunate. Through their actions, they truly embodied the spirit of Mary MacKillop and her call to “never see a need without doing something about it.” We are incredibly proud of the compassion and service shown by our students throughout the day.
03 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Duke of Edinburgh Gold Practice Journey Recently, 12 Year 11 students completed their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Practice Adventurous Journey, spending 4 days and 3 nights kayaking and camping along the lower Hawkesbury. Students paddled through challenging conditions and camped at Marramarra Creek, Back Beach, and Gentleman’s Halt campgrounds. While the weather was certainly mixed — with some welcome bright spells — the group showed great resilience and teamwork through fairly persistent rainfall. A fantastic effort by all involved as students continued to develop their independence, leadership, and outdoor skills in preparation for their qualifying journey. Well done to everyone who took part!
02 Jun 2026
From Facebook
Recently, students from Years 9 and 11 at Gilroy Catholic College proudly assisted at the Parramatta Primary Cross Country Carnival. Our students showed outstanding enthusiasm and leadership while supporting the many primary school competitors throughout the day. Their roles included marshalling, checkpoint instruction, finish line presenting, and assisting at the water stations. The students represented Gilroy with pride, and the carnival convener acknowledged their excellent efforts and contribution to the success of the event. Well done to all involved!
01 Jun 2026
From Facebook
01 Jun 2026
From Facebook
01 Jun 2026
From Facebook
29 May 2026
From Facebook
Recently Gilroy Catholic College Year 8 TAS students completed their practical assessment, showcasing their impressive culinary skills! Staff were invited to take part in taste tests, with students presenting their dishes to the “panel” for judging. The assessments considered a range of criteria, including flavour, texture and presentation. The feedback from staff was glowing, with everyone commenting on the outstanding quality of the dishes prepared by our students. Congratulations Year 8 on your hard work, creativity and effort!
28 May 2026
From Facebook
27 May 2026
From Facebook
Today, staff and students were invited to don blue in support of the New South Wales Blues ahead of tonight’s State of Origin clash! Wishing the Blues the very best for the big game tonight! #StateOfOrigin #NSWBlues #UpTheBlues
27 May 2026
From Facebook
Congratulations to the Gilroy Catholic College students who competed in the PDSSSC Cross Country event! Our students represented the College with pride, determination and great sportsmanship, always giving their best effort on the course. A special congratulations to Ruby and Georgia, who have progressed to compete at the NSWCCC Cross Country Championships. We wish them the very best as they continue this exciting journey!