The Culture of Life Committee at St. Jean de Brebeuf CSS commits itself to several means of service both within the school and also in its contributions to the larger community.
Early in the school year, on Respect Life Sunday, members of the Culture of Life demonstrate a dedicated stance in support of the unborn by participating publicly in a silent witness at designated points in the city in the annual Life Chain. Students come armoured with enthusiasm, passion and hope that their visibility will have an impact on the way the larger community thinks about, responds to and chooses the gift of life. Also in the autumn, the students have the opportunity to attend annual banquets with prominent and influential guest speakers sponsored by Hamilton Right to Life and Hamilton Birthright. Such events both form and help consolidate an attitude and spirit congenial to living a life rooted in such fundamental prolife values, being examples to others and growing more confident in expressing justice in sometimes hostile or non-supportive atmospheres.
During other times of the year, and especially during Advent, the students visit seniors residences with the anticipated cheerfulness and immanent joy of the season of Christ's Nativity. After greeting the residents with an extensive performance/sing-a-long the students mingle with the residents, listening to and sharing stories, heartfelt feelings and laughter. The excitement of participating in this third annual event begins early in the school year with many students expressing intentions to visit with the seniors.
The Culture of Life Committee also lends its hands and service to L'Arche community events and serves at dinner functions, including the Christmas dinner and pageant. Work goes quickly with ample hands and the recognition of grace in their lives touches each student in remarkable ways opening their eyes to the wonders and miracles of life as gift.
The Culture of Life Committee looks forward to continued opportunities to live and witness to our faith as members of the mystical Body of Christ.