The pupils of nine Dunedin Catholic schools held a social justice day yesterday, taking part in 14 different projects throughout the city including a rubbish cleanup of the Town Belt, baking for residents of Ross Home and connecting with pensioners.
St Joseph’s Cathedral School religious studies director Kelly Braithwaite said her classroom had four Domincan sisters and a priest visit.
Pupils aged 5 to 7 put on a concert for them as a way to share love and year 0 to 2 pupils made cards and shared a morning tea with them.
She said the day taught the pupils that people in need were not always the ones who needed money or food.
"Sometimes needs in the community can be as simple as showing love and care and respect to other people."
It was important for young people to connect with the Dominican Charism and Catholic faith to see the sisters were just regular people like their grandmothers, she said.
Mrs Braithwaite said there was "pure joy" on the children’s faces after seeing they had made someone else’s day.
"Particularly with our senior students who were out doing things, they can see the impact they were having.
"While it might seem simple, the small gestures make a big difference in others’ lives."
