“The Bazaar is one of the most wonderful grassroots events where we all come together to support people in countries who experience conflict, natural disasters and poverty.”

Helen Forde

It was another incredible display of community spirit and generosity, with people flocking to Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview in Sydney on Saturday 12 September in a collective display of faith in action. 

Thousands of supporters and volunteers were there for a joyful day of friendship and fundraising – schools, parishes, teachers, students, parents, past students and friends.

All the proceeds from the Bazaar go to help vulnerable communities in over 10 countries across Asia and beyond.

As Fr Tom Renshaw SJ, Riverview Rector, aptly reflected during the evening Mass after the Bazaar: “I have had the privilege of visiting the Hazaribagh Province five times and it is inspirational to see what has been achieved in this part of India. The schools, parishes and other services have been made possible through the generosity of people from Australia, and especially our own community.”

Speaking at the Mass, Jesuit Mission CEO, Helen Forde, brought to life the circumstances of many people helped by Jesuit Mission’s programs. She shared an encounter from the prior week’s meetings in India:

“A young woman from Myanmar who worked in one of the conflict areas shared her thoughts on safety. She shut her eyes and I could see tears rolling down her face. She then said that for her, safety means going to bed at night and waking up in the morning without hearing the sound of planes or bombs being dropped. It was a stark reminder to me of how lucky we are in Australia.”

“Many of our partners who work in conflict zones are affected by humanitarian emergencies like the recent Venezuela earthquakes and floods in Nepal. While the Jesuits and our lay collaborators are on the ground to respond, this can only be done through the generosity of people in Australia. The Bazaar is one of the most wonderful grassroots events where we all come together to support people in countries who experience conflict, natural disasters and poverty.”

“Every one of our Jesuit partners has offered their heartfelt thanks to Jesuit Mission for the funds that we send every year to India and Southeast Asia. My response is that it is a privilege to walk with them, but the gratitude really goes to the people in Australia who offer their compassion, their love and their generosity.”