Embodying the Touchstones
by Dean of Identity and Community (Acting), Mr Lachlan Heshusius
“Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who treat you badly” (Luke 6:27).
Luke’s words serve as a moral code of conduct, guiding us in how we relate to those who frustrate us, upset us or even harm us through words and actions. How often do I find myself judging others without truly understanding their struggles? Have I ever paused to reflect on the impact of my words or actions on others? When was the last time I remembered that God loves even those who may have wronged me? Have I taken a moment to pray for those I have been quick to see as adversaries? Instead of standing in judgment of others, perhaps I should focus on humility, asking God with a sincere heart: “Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
If there was ever someone who truly embodied the message of peace and love, it was Martin Luther King Jr. In 1964, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. During his acceptance speech, he shared words from the First Letter of John: "Let us love one another since love comes from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and experiences a relationship with God. The person who refuses to love does not know the first thing about God because God is love. So, you can’t know God if you don’t love… If we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and God’s love becomes complete in us" (1 John 4:7-12).
These words reflect the core of Edmund Rice Education Australia's (EREA) mission and vision. Just as love is central to our relationship with God, it is also at the heart of the EREA Charter, which guides our 55 Catholic schools across Australia. The Charter articulates our identity as a community of faith, rooted in love and calls us to action through its four Touchstones: Liberating Education, Gospel Spirituality, Inclusive Community and Justice and Solidarity. These principles are more than ideals—they are lived out in our schools through a commitment to faithfulness, transformation and responding to the diverse needs of learners. Through these Touchstones, we bring to life the love of God and extend it to all, shaping an educational experience that empowers students to become agents of love, justice and compassion.
At St Laurence’s College, the four Touchstones guide our community in creating a world of hope and love. Through Liberating Education, we empower students with knowledge and critical thinking to shape a better future. Gospel Spirituality inspires faith-filled lives, rooted in compassion and service. Our Inclusive Community welcomes all, fostering respect and belonging. Justice and Solidarity call us to stand with the marginalised, taking action for social change. By living these values daily, we nurture young men of character, ensuring our College reflects the vision of Luke’s Gospel—a place where faith, learning and justice create a more loving world.
We take great pride in the many Faith in Action initiatives that have flourished throughout Term 1. Our students have generously volunteered with the Rosies Street Van, cooked breakfast for those in need at Emmanuel City Mission and brought joy to children at the Queensland Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House. They
have also supported St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School with breakfast programs, partnered with Somerville House for the Eat Up initiative and joined Loreto College in their social justice retreats. Additionally, they stood in solidarity with Iona College at their Justice and Mission Expo, all whilst embodying compassion, service and a
commitment to others.
It’s often the simplest acts that make the biggest difference— donating pancake mix and cooking breakfast for our hungry lads on Shrove Tuesday to support fundraising efforts or selling raffle tickets at the MND and ME Scott Sullivan Memorial Gala and the 42for42 Luncheon. Through these moments, our students embody the Charter in action. More than that, they are encouraged, challenged and called to live out the truth that everyone who loves is born of God and experiences a relationship with Him.
We can be proud and excited for the next chapter of putting faith into action and the impact it will have on our life on the Hill.