Students from the Southvale Primary School and Dandenong West Primary School Choir perform at the Interfaith Network’s 2005 schools gathering on Monday. Picture: Meagan Trotter.By Nathan Johnston
MORE than 700 children packed into the Springvale Town Hall on Monday for a special gathering to promote religious and cultural harmony within the community.
Children from 11 schools throughout Greater Dandenong attended the event, and heard from 14 faith leaders from seven different faiths.
Southvale Primary School principal Sue Barford said the event helped children understand that other religions were not something to be feared.
“The children heard messages from each of the faiths. It was important because there are some families that are fearful of different religious groups.
“This was a chance to celebrate the diversity and richness that we have in our schools and in our communities.”
She said Greater Dandenong was fortunate to have the diversity to host such an event.
“I think this would be one of the very few places where this type of event happens.
“It has been held for the last four years with the Interfaith Network, and we hope to make it bigger and better every year.”
The program for the gathering included a concert and music program, as well as information packs with brochures about different faiths.
Ms Barford said this year’s event focussed on the celebrations of the Year of Microcredit, and its aims to provide financial equality for all.
