A Word from the Principal
Welcome to Semester Two
A special warm welcome to our new students and new families. I am sure the community will make you feel welcome.
Others!
Over the last few weeks the theme of “others” continues to come up. In Fr Anthony’s Gospel reflection on Mount Carmel Day, he mentioned that whilst the Gospels told us the story of Jesus, they were most importantly focussed on Jesus’ interactions with others. Fr Anthony made the poignant statement that others gave us our first bath when we enter the world, but also our last bath when we leave this world. Others are important, life as we know it would be meaningless if not for our interactions with others. The Gospels and the story of Jesus highlights that all interactions with those around us – others, need to be based on love. The qualities of love shine through actions of forgiveness, kindness, compassion and empathy. We use actions of welcome, hospitality and justice when we open our College community to new students and their families, new staff and visitors. Mount Carmel College proudly models the love of Jesus through our daily interactions.
On the student free Monday, staff from the College took up the challenge to participate with a number of Volunteer agencies. We worked alongside the Foodbank, Vinnies, Landcare, Guilford Young Grove, St Francis Flexible Learning Centre, and Bethlehem House. Each agency does something different, but each is focussed outwardly on others. This brief insight into the work these volunteer agencies do also enabled staff to walk in our student’s footsteps. Both in Year 8 and in Year 10 community service is a part of our learning experiences. This outreach (reaching a hand out to those on the margins of society) reminds us of the important work and message of the Gospel.
The message we are left with in the Gospel is that we are unconditionally loved – loved as we are. Each of us is made in the image and likeness of God and we have value. Focussing outwardly – on others – brings peace and kindness to all that we touch in this world. Reach out to others, open yourself to the gifts others bring and celebrate what we all share in common – our humanity.
Thought of the Week
“The greatest disease in the West today is not TB or leprosy; it is being unwanted, unloved, and uncared for. We can cure physical diseases with medicine, but the only cure for loneliness, despair, and hopelessness is love. There are many in the world who are dying for a piece of bread but there are many more dying for a little love."
Mother Teresa, A Simple Path: Mother Teresa
Staffing News
As the College begins to plan for 2020 I would like the community to know that Angela Green has submitted her resignation. Angela has been with the community for 14 years and is an amazing educator. She has inspired many students and will be greatly missed. We wish Angela blessings for the future and hope that the re invigorated life balance brings her much joy and happiness.
This week we also farewell Melinda Levy from her role as Teacher Librarian. Melinda is taking up a position in the Indie school working with students who are disengaged from education. Melinda’s strength of building strong relationships will be a gift to those in her new role. We wish her all the best with this inspirational change. Scott Young will temporarily cover this position until the College is able to employ a replacement.
Mrs Fiona Nolan
Principal