with Ben Hillier Mission Fiji team leader

At the end of term 2 , a group of 14 college students and five staff embarked on an unforgettable mission trip to Fiji . Guided by Mark 10:45 , “ For even the Son of Man did not come to be served , but to serve , and to give his life as a ransom for many ,” this action-packed journey allowed us to engage in various service opportunities , immersing ourselves in Fijian culture and learning .

This immersive experience was enlightening as we learned about the rich and vibrant Fijian culture in a small village on our first stop . Our key service project here was to prepare a building site by clearing land and building a service road . Additionally , we helped gather vegetables for communal meals , fostering a sense of community and cooperation .

A highlight of our village stay was visiting the local school . Our students

prepared a short lesson about Australian culture to share with the Fijian students , encouraging a cultural exchange that was both educational and enjoyable .

Lunchtime was filled with laughter and games , creating bonds that transcended cultural differences . This journey also included visiting a local church in the village on Sunday morning where our students ran the children ’ s Sunday School program , teaching the story of Daniel and the Lion ’ s Den .

We were also able to deliver muchneeded donations , through the generosity of our college community , including new chairs for the growing church congregation and books to expand the local school library . These contributions will have a lasting impact , supporting education and spiritual growth in the community .

Next on the itinerary was Homes of Hope . This is an organisation that provides a safe haven for vulnerable women , including those who have been victims

of domestic violence . This shelter offers a year-long residency where women are trained in various skills , such as computer and financial literacy , farming , sewing , and cooking , to help them provide for their families .

Our students helped maintain the grounds , pulling weeds , tilling soil , planting beans , and preparing seedlings . In three days , the staff calculated that we saved them two months of labour ! Beyond the physical tasks , our students connected with the residents , playing volleyball , interacting with the children , and building a sense of community . This experience left a lasting impact on our students , who felt they had made a meaningful contribution to the Fijian community .

We then moved to Suva , where our students packed hospital bags for new mothers at the maternity ward of Suva Hospital . Delivering these bags to the new mums was a humbling experience , allowing our students to witness the joy

and gratitude of the recipients firsthand . While the practical aspects of the trip were significant , the spiritual growth experienced by the students was equally profound . Serving in God ’ s name , they learnt about love , humility , and the power of giving . Their faith grew as they experienced firsthand the joy of helping others .

My hope is that they bring this newfound strength and perspective back to our college , inspiring their peers and continuing to live out these values .

For anyone considering a future mission trip for their children , I wholeheartedly encourage you to take this step . It is an incredible opportunity for personal growth , spiritual development , and making a meaningful difference in the world .

If you would like more information about education at Norwest Christian College , please visit www . norwest . nsw . edu . au .