Standing in Solidarity with Sikh Community, Woolgoolga

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9 June 2021: St Francis Xavier Primary School, Woolgoolga, hosted a special community event 'Standing in Solidarity' with the Woolgoolga Sikh community in response to the Indian COVID crisis.

'St Francis Xavier Primary School brought two faith communities together in vigil and prayer to recognise the impact of the pandemic on the marginalised around the world. There is not much else that we can do in our community where there is a real need at present. As Catholic schools it is our mission to support those who are marginalised in our community and across the globe. Through the connection and celebration of our communities, there was a tangible sense of the Spirit in deep solidarity with all present,' stated Principal Troy Baker. 

The evening included Sikh hymn singing, dancing, a candlelight vigil, prayer and finished with the hymn 'We are Messengers' led by the St Francis Xavier choir and Bobby Kandola. All in attendance were then delighted with a delicious ‘shared meal’ from the Sikh community. 

Parent Lainie shared, 'what a beautiful evening! I enjoyed every moment of our school and local faith communities coming together in the universal languages of prayer, song, and a shared meal! I am so proud of the students involved and what a great experience for the students who weren’t! Thank you to all staff, students and community who coordinated the event, it was really well done. Hopefully, this can become a regular event.' 

'It felt heartwarming when our communities came together in support of the Sikh community especially because of COVID-19. Our Catholic school community got to listen to Sikh prayers which felt really good. The Sikh community got to show our school what being Sikh is all about,' said Year 5 student Sahib Singh. 

'I had the pleasure to attend and be a part of the Solidarity Night held at St Francis Xavier and must say that it was a very calm and beautiful night. It was lovely to see two faiths together praying for the less unfortunate people in the world suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic,' said parent Anita. 

You can experience some of this very special evening at  https://youtu.be/1iRsvY1G_Mw