Harmony Dialogues is an inter-faith, inter-school program where students are encouraged to share their faith traditions and experiences as young people.
Year 12 student Arten Singer describes his participation as having enriched his appreciation for the “rich cultures of those around us that shape our world”.
“This program has reinforced and articulated for me how there is no concrete way to practice faith,”
he said.
The Rev’d Dr Hugh Kempster says the initiative’s aim is to learn about other cultures and practices, but also to create opportunities for connection.
“Our students talk in facilitated groups about being teenagers in our complex, multicultural world,” he said.
Head of Languages Megan McLaughlin has been a driving force behind both the establishment of the program, and of Melbourne Grammar’s participation.
Fostering a deeper level of understanding
Schools involved in the program come together annually for ‘Creative Day’; an opportunity to deep-dive on a topic of spirituality.
Melbourne Grammar hosted this year’s event with the support of First Nations program manager, Shane Evans, and our school’s First Nations students.
Students explored the cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity of Australia before delving into Aboriginal Spirituality and how it guides the relationships, behaviour, and identity of First Nations people.
“Understanding Aboriginal Spirituality is important because it teaches respect, balance and deep listening (Dadirri),” Rev’d Helen Dwyer said.
“It offers wisdom for caring for the environment and each other and that understanding spirituality helps us walk together in truth, reconciliation, and justice.”
Creating an environment for connection
Arten says that through the connections he’s made, he has come away with a much broader understanding of how different religions are practiced.
“Through getting to know each of our group members and forming a deep personal connection with them, we were able to create an environment in which we all felt comfortable to exchange viewpoints and answer deeply spiritual questions,” he said.
“May we all continue to build bridges together.”
