Growing Grace: Inspiring Compassion
In 2024, our community at Immanuel Lutheran School, Gawler partnered with Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) to support farmers in Burundi through the Burundi Farm Partnership. Our efforts culminated in a community ‘Walk My Way’ event that exceeded all expectations, raising an incredible $14,000 to help families build sustainable livelihoods.
After such a large-scale project, I wanted our focus this year to shift toward something personal and class-based, but remaining connected to ALWS. We have chosen to support ‘Gifts of Grace’.
Each class from Foundation to Year 6 will read this year’s storybook, Iman and her Egg-cellent Idea, and explore the Gifts of Grace catalogue. The storybook helps learners recognise that while our lives may look very different, and many children around the world face daily challenges, we are all connected by our shared needs, hopes, and dreams. Through Iman’s story, students gain insight into her life, her community, and the realities of living in a very different context.
To make this journey visible and meaningful for everyone, we will set up a ‘Gifts of Grace’ Christmas tree in a central space at school. After reading the story and viewing the catalogue, each class will choose a gift they would like to support. Their chosen gift will be displayed as a star decoration on the tree, symbolising their goal.
Each class will also receive a 3D-printed chicken moneybox, created at school using our own 3D printer. The chicken reminds us of Iman’s story and the value that chickens bring to her and her family. Students will add their offerings throughout the term and will bring these forward in worship as part of our collective giving.
When a class reaches its goal, the star on the tree will be replaced with a bauble from the ALWS website representing the gift that has been achieved. Parents and staff will also be invited to add baubles to the tree if they choose to purchase a gift themselves. This ensures that the project remains a whole-community expression of compassion and generosity.
At a time of year when the commercial focus is often on spending and material ‘wishes,’ Gifts of Grace provides a powerful counterbalance. It invites our students to think about others who lack even the essentials for a healthy life, and to see that the gifts they give – however large or small – truly make a difference.
As a leader, it’s heartening to watch our learners discover that giving brings joy, builds empathy, and nurtures hope – both for those who receive and for those who give.
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