Faith and Mission

As we move into November, we are called to remember two traditions within our Catholic faith: All Saints' Day on 1 November and All Souls' Day on 2 November. These special days encourage us to think about the lives of those who have gone before us and to reflect on the unity we share with the saints and all faithful souls.

All Saints' Day is a time to celebrate everyone who has reached heaven, not just the saints officially recognised by the Church, but all those who lived lives devoted to love, faith, and service. It reminds us that each of us is called to holiness. Pope St John XXIII, known as the 'Good Pope,' once remarked that holiness is not found in extraordinary acts, but in doing ordinary things with extraordinary love and faithfulness. His example, especially during his leadership at the Second Vatican Council, shows us how a spirit of humility and openness can have an impact on the world.

All Souls' Day follows, offering us a chance to remember and pray for our loved ones who have died. It is a tradition based on love and remembrance, where we entrust those who have gone before us into God's care and mercy. Our prayers are a sign of our ongoing connection with them and our hope in the promise of eternal life.

St Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, understood the gift of prayer for others. In his Spiritual Exercises, he encouraged people to reflect on their lives and actions, always seeking to grow closer to God and to serve others. He reminds us that our journey does not end with this life, and that praying for one another, both living and departed, strengthens our bonds as a faith community.

This month, we also remember Mary Ward, a courageous woman of faith who dedicated her life to education and the empowerment of women. Though not yet recognised as a saint, Mary Ward’s legacy inspires us all. The Loreto Province of Australia and Southeast Asia joins the global Mary Ward Family in celebrating the historic union of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM) and the Congregatio Jesu (CJ). The merger has been affirmed by decree and will be publicly proclaimed on 4 November 2025 in Loyola, Spain. This long-awaited union fulfils Mary Ward’s founding vision that “all may be one,” bringing together the final two branches of her spiritual legacy. Around 130 representatives from five continents will gather in Loyola to celebrate this milestone moment for the global Mary Ward Family.

As a school community, let us take All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day as an invitation to pause, remember, and pray for all those who have shaped our faith. 

Janeen Murphy

Deputy Principal Faith and Mission

Community Mass

All students, staff, families and alumni are invited to attend Community Mass. 

Community Mass details

• College Chapel
• Fridays in term time
• Starts at 8:00am concludes at 8:30am.