From the Rector

Reflection: A great number of people followed him, and among them were women who were wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children.

Greetings! 

Our focus this week sees Jesus encounter the women of Jerusalem as he continues his final earthly steps to Calvary. Even in Jesus’ most difficult moment he still pauses to encounter the women who were following him. Firstly, Jesus acknowledges their care for him and secondly, he acknowledges the hurt that fills their lives. Even in this desperate time Jesus continues the message of his public ministry that we are a people of hope and this will not be the end of the story. Jesus’ compassion for each one of us is unconditional. We are called to learn from his compassion for others despite the personal journey he was enduring. The challenge for us is to show this same compassion when we encounter others on our journey. We know that people will deride us for our faith or misunderstand us from time to time, however, rather than snapping back angrily or ignoring them we are called to learn from Jesus’ encounter. 

A great witness to this compassion is Pope Francis’s recent trip to Iraq to promote hope and peace amongst the tears and hurt of the local people due to war. 

So, let us be a people who feel the tears of those around us who are suffering in one way or another and bring the Easter hope of life, love, and wholeness to them here and now.

Next week we will commence celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation in preparation for Easter. Even though we have COVID restrictions we are still intent on giving our students this experience of God’s forgiveness. We have decided to celebrate the Second Rite of Reconciliation which will fulfill our COVID regulations and ensure that our students are prepared for Easter. 

Last Wednesday evening was a great opportunity for me to meet many of the parents of students attending our College. We gathered for an informal meet and greet sponsored by the Parents' & Friends' Association. The education of your son is a partnership between the College and you, their parents, or guardians so it is important that you take some time to apply your gifts and talents in support of the various College activities.

The Year 12 Retreats commence next Tuesday and Wednesday at three different locations due to the COVID regulations. The three retreat venues will be at Lysterfield, Safety Beach and Yellingbo. A retreat is a time to be with God and a catalyst for personal growth in a wholistic approach. Please remember to keep the students, teachers, and priest in your prayers during these special days.

On Friday we celebrated the Junior College Assembly where the various categories of student leaders were introduced and presented with their blessed leadership badges. Congratulations to those elected and remember the witness and responsibility that comes with the badge. 

Have a smile!

Fr Harry Dyer OMI

Rector