Mission & Identity

The Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12) 

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: 

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

We thank you God for those who put the care and concerns of others before their own interests. Your kingdom is present in their generous and humble love. 

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 

We thank you God for those who feel the sorrow of others, and so moved, offer comfort in times of trial. Your kingdom is present in their friendship. 

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 

We thank you God for those who know love is the greatest power in your creation. Your kingdom is present in their leadership. 

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

We thank you God for those who know prayer is knowledge of your will and the source of courage to act in accordance with your will. Your kingdom is present in their desire to abide in your presence. 

Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. 

We thank you God for those who know the wrong that is done in this world, but proclaim that we all need a second chance. And a third, fourth, fifth chance. Your kingdom is present in their prophecy. 

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 

We thank you God for those who take the risk to love without limit. Your kingdom is present in their hearts. 

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 

We thank you God for those who understand education as the encounter of the heart. Your kingdom is present in those moments of formation between sisters and brothers in Jesus. 

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

We thank you God for those who are not afraid to face the trials of this life. Your kingdom is present in their witness to truth, goodness and beauty. 

Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

We thank you God. We thank you. St Patrick’s College was created out of giving thanks for all your gifts. May we never misplace our desire for your love. May the heights of this term-break be filled with love and joy, so that we return back ‘down the mountain’, filled with God’s Spirit, ready to take up our responsibility for the heritage of St Patrick’s College.