PADUA College, Kedron, continued a tradition of interfaith friendship on October 24 by hosting students from the Islamic College of Brisbane.
The visit provided students from both schools with an opportunity to share in a welcoming prayer, sign of peace and information session about the life of St Francis.
The students also took part in interactive social activities, including a game of basketball and tour around the college.
Padua College teacher Richard Butler said the friendship between the two schools had grown over the past four years.
“We decided to become involved in developing a relationship with another religious community in 2010 as part of our Study of Religion program,” Mr Butler said.
The friendship has been strengthened by annual visits and activity days, with Padua hosting ICB students every October, and Year 12 SOR students visiting the Islamic College each May.
Mt Alvernia College, Kedron, participates in a similar relationship with the female students from ICB, where the girls “have a wonderful time getting to know each other” and “learn more about their school and culture from a female perspective”, Mr Butler said.
“The purpose of our interfaith activity is to dialogue with one another,” he said.
“This includes learning about a different religion and culture.”
Mr Butler said it was a “most enjoyable experience for students and staff”.
“We have established a great friendship which helps to build and develop knowledge, tolerance, acceptance and understanding of different religions and cultures within our wider community,” he said.
