Staff and students from The Academy of St Francis of Assisi recently took part in a day of fasting to show solidarity with those suffering in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Africa, due to ongoing war and conflict.

 

As part of the Kensington-based academy’s Lenten Collective Worship, the school community reflected on the key cornerstones of repentance during Lent: prayer, fasting, and giving.

 

Inspired by a suggestion from one of the school’s Common Good Ambassadors, the academy decided to dedicate a day of prayer and fasting to raise awareness of the ongoing crisis in Congo, often referred to as the ‘silent war’ due to its lack of coverage in global media.

 

All students and staff were invited to participate, with many choosing to fast in different ways. Some opted for a solidarity meal of soup and bread instead of their usual lunch, while others committed to a full fast until the end of the school day. This approach, inspired by Jesus’ teaching on fasting in Matthew 6:16-18, encourages individuals to fast in a way that is meaningful to them.

 

As a part of the initiative, the academy encouraged students and staff to donate £1 each to support the vital work of Caritas, the Catholic Church’s international aid and development charity. Caritas provides essential support to communities affected by poverty, war, and injustice.

 

Victoria, a student in Year 9, said: “This Lent, we are fasting and giving to highlight what’s happening in Congo and stand in solidarity with those suffering.”

 

Year 7 student, Victory, commented: “In Congo, people are fighting over land and minerals, some of these minerals are in our mobile phones. The children of Congo are being affected, some are child soldiers, and others are losing family members and even their own lives”.

 

Chloe, who is in Year 9, added: “We can help by fasting and praying for the conflict to end, donating to help those in need and raising awareness through local campaigns.”

 

Ms Jo Leech, headteacher of The Academy of St Francis of Assisi, said: “We are incredibly proud of the Assisi community for taking part in the fast. This initiative has been a meaningful way for our students and staff to engage with the values of Lent and demonstrate solidarity with those who are suffering. It has been inspiring to see our community come together.”