Tom Milliken, Abbey Feutrill and Kim Byrnes reflect on their experiences working as volunteers on Marist projects in Asia and the Pacific.
More than 40 people turned out last Monday night for the second Marist Solidarity winter conversation to be held at its national headquarters the Marist Centre in Brisbane.
The event showcased the experiences of three young Queensland volunteers who have participated in the Marist volunteer program, including Tom Milliken, Kim Byrnes and Abbey Feutrill.
Tom—a former Marist College Ashgrove student, travelled to Vanga Point in the Solomon Islands on an immersion in year 11. He returned to Vanga Point for two months in 2013.
St Peter Claver College teacher Kim Byrnes first encountered Marist Solidarity during a teaching contract at Mount Maria in Mitchelton. Kim reflected on her two-month experience volunteering at the Marist Centre for Migrants in Thailand, at the end of 2014.
Former St Teresa’s Catholic College student, Abbey Feutrill, talked about her experiences at the LaValla School in Cambodia, which caters for students with disabilities, earlier in 2015.
The vibrant and informative panel conversation was facilitated by Marist College Ashgrove’s campus minister Mena McLean. Executive Director of Marist Solidarity Br Allen Sherry thanked Mena for her commitment to the Marist Solidarity team, and the special role she plays in Marist college life, especially in terms of overseas immersions.
He also welcomed its highly respected partners, particularly members of the Little King Movement for their ongoing support of the LaValla School in Cambodia.
A number of former Marist ex-missioners from Melanesia and Asia also attended the event.
Visit www.maristvolunteersaustralia.com.au to find out more.