Chaplaincy
Chaplaincy
at Mernda Hills
Participation and belonging are encouraged among all students and families, as we seek to know, live like and share Jesus Christ.
Nurturing our students for a stronger community
The Chaplaincy program provides practical and emotional support for families in need, making referrals to other organisations and professional bodies where further support is required. Chaplains provide a first point of call for students, as well as an area of safety within the school where trauma can be dealt with in a confidential, nurturing environment.
Staff and volunteers within the school community are also supported and encouraged by the Chaplaincy team.
Members of the Chaplaincy team are engaged in the spiritual life and the growth of the school community.
Examples of this are found in weekly worship experiences like chapel and staff worships. Annual Festival of Faith in Primary, and Week of Worship in secondary create week long high points celebrating student involvement and leadership. Individual and small group bible studies operate across the campus, encouraging students in their spiritual journey. Students are enabled to lead out in various church services across the wider community and the Combined Schools Day of Worship event – which draws together students from five sister schools in the Victorian Adventist School system.
On campus, Chaplains convene and lead parent prayer and Bible study groups on a regular basis. Our specific programs can be seen below.
Adventurers Club Ages 4 - 5, Pathfinder Club Ages 10 - 16
Chaplains initiated the formation of our Pathfinder Club, which encourages students from ages 10 – 16 in developing life skills, including leadership and communication, among many other skills. Events include regular weekend meetings, day hiking, and overnight camping. Students over 16 are provided with the opportunity to develop leadership skills through the club.
Festival of Faith (FOF)
Chaplains organise two Festival of Faith's (FOFs) annually for secondary students, inviting dynamic speakers to lead this praise and worship time. Students are encouraged by presentations from these speakers from around Australia.
Mernda Hills Student Days
Primary and Secondary year levels pair up to prepare and participate in one annual school community Sabbath program each at Mernda Adventist Community Church, e.g. Foundation with Year 12, Year 1 with year 11 etc. Teachers and Chaplains develop the themes and work together to bring these regular GSDs together.
Chapel Bands
Chaplains assist in the formation and operation of chapel bands. This allows students to develop their musical skills and confidence in performing for their peers and teachers.
Bible Studies
Years 5 to 12 students participate in Bible study at their own request. They work with our chaplaincy team to explore key messages in the Bible stories that they discuss.
Fired Up!
Our Chaplains also run a Friday-night youth program throughout the year on campus. The Fired-Up program targets high-school students during a time of rapid social development and focuses on building positive relationships and building capacity in each young person.
