On 19th and 20th May 2022, the 8th 3G4G Cultural Sharing Festival were joyfully received 75 students from Sunnyhills School in Year 4, 80 students from Finlayson Park School in Year 5 and 6 and 90 students from St Pius Catholic School in Year 3 to 8. All the teachers, parents helpers and students came to the Temple excitingly as schedule despite the rain in the morning.
It is worth noting that Finlayson Park School participated in its third year. A big welcome was given to the students and they followed all the instructions about Temple etiquette and greetings such as joining palms, offering incense at the Front Shrine etc. Furthermore, the delicious Laba Rice that was prepared by the Temple brought extra warmth to all of the students on a cold rainy day.
In addition, this is the first year participation of the St Pius Catholic School. The students had a great time and actively made their wishes in the Prince Siddhartha Exhibition Hall like, “I hope everyone will be kind to others, I hope everyone will be successful.” Interestingly, a student who has walked out the Front Shrine and realize that he was yet to pay homage to the statue of Avalokitesvara so he quickly turn back and did so before leaving.
Debbie Williams, Deputy Principal of St Pius Catholic School expressed that the students were well integrated and engaging in all sessions which filled with many surprises. The program exposed students to different religions in addition to their own Catholic faith. She felt grateful to the Temple for organizing as it enables the students to gain a better understanding of the country diversity and hoping to bring more students to participate in the future.
