Aboriginal Projects
2006 Aboriginal Projects
‘Dreaming from the Heart’- An Indigenous Youth Experience
In October 2006, twelve young people traveled from Perth to Alice Springs to attend a gathering that would have far-reaching effects, not only on their lives but on the lives of their fellow Australians.
Aged 15-17 years, the young people came from a variety of schools to attend ‘Dreaming from the Heart’ – the NATSIC 7th National Assembly, held in conjunction with the 20th anniversary celebrations of Pope John Paul II’s visit to Alice Springs and address in 1986. The group was mainly indigenous but also comprised non-indigenous participants in the belief that Reconciliation would come about through a shared journey. Four of the students came from Irene McCormack Catholic College and some were sponsored by grants from the Mary MacKillop Foundation.
For Phil Smith, the College’s Campus Ministry Co-ordinator, the aim of the project was to address the indigenous youth sense of displacement and loss of identity in society. The opportunity to take students to the Alice Springs experience was invaluable in fostering community awareness of the bigger picture of indigenous, justice and Church issues.
Phil Smith was assisted by Kylie Agale from the Aboriginal Catholic Youth Ministry. Together, they accompanied the students on a journey of traditional Aboriginal and Christian ceremonies, led by Elders and religious leaders from all over Australia – music and singing forming a powerful part of the proceedings.
‘Dreaming from the Heart’, was a unique opportunity for all participants to experience the spiritual symbolism and reality of the gathering; the sacredness of its location, its people and its purpose. It is hoped the experience gained by the young people that was shared on their return will keep alive the spirit and vision of the Holy Father in 1986.
Aboriginal Catholic Youth Ministry
Perth Archdiocese.
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