Tuesday 4 March 2025
Hargreaves Mall Bendigo was filled the delicious scent of pancakes this morning as the community gathered to celebrate Shrove Tuesday, hosted by Caritas Australia. This cherished tradition brings together Catholic schools across the Sandhurst diocese to celebrate the start of Lent - a time of reflection and preparation for Easter, where we are called to bring hope and be good news for those in need. The event also serves as a launch for Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion, an annual appeal that supports life-changing projects in vulnerable communities worldwide.
A dedicated team of ‘pancake chefs’ flipped hundreds of golden pancakes, while choirs from Catholic schools across the diocese filled the mall with music.
Anthony Chalkley, Deputy Principal, St Monica's School Kangaroo Flat: "We're thrilled to be here today. We've brought our leaders who are able to go back and talk about some of the social justice things they've heard people talk about, watch other schools perform, and be a part of what's going on in our diocese within Bendigo."
Father Rom Hayes, Diocesan Director for Caritas Australia: "The response has been marvelous. We've had people lined up for the last hour. People put in a donation, but more importantly they take a little pamphlet which explains what Caritas is about and their important work."
Paul Kabalan, Year 12, Catherine McAuley College: "Shrove Tuesday is all about the 40 days of Lent, giving back, and serving the community and the less fortunate. I'm really privileged for the opportunity to give back to the community."
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