Faith and Mission
On 21 September, the International Day of Peace served as an important reminder of the ideals of peace. This year’s theme, ‘Act now for a peaceful world’, speaks with renewed urgency, especially as our world continues to face ongoing conflicts, division, and uncertainty.
As a College inspired by the life and teachings of Pope John XXIII, we turn to his timeless encyclical, Pacem in Terris, Peace on Earth, written in 1963 amid the tension of the Cold War. In his letter, Pope John XXIII spoke with deep hope for the possibility of peace achieved through truth, justice, love, and freedom. He reminded humanity that peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but the presence of right relationships between individuals, communities, and nations.
His message remains relevant today, as conflicts across the globe, whether in Ukraine, Gaza, Africa, or elsewhere, remind us how fragile peace can be. Pope John XXIII’s call to peace in our times challenges us to be active participants in peacemaking, not passive bystanders.
The International Day of Peace’s theme, 'Act now for a peaceful world', invites every member of our community to consider what it means to act for peace, here and now.
At John XXIII College, we value critical thinking, social responsibility, and personal development, qualities that empower us to become peacebuilders. Critical thinking helps us question injustice, seek understanding, and challenge prejudice. Social responsibility calls us to look beyond ourselves and support the wellbeing of others, both in our school and the wider world. Personal development encourages us to grow in empathy, resilience, and respect for difference.
In practical terms, acting for peace might look like engaging in restorative conversations when conflicts arise, where understanding is sought rather than assigning blame. It can mean taking part in social justice initiatives that support refugees, protect the environment, or assist those experiencing hardship. Acting for peace also involves taking time to listen to diverse perspectives and learning to resolve disagreements with respect. Moreover, promoting spiritual and mental health and wellbeing is vital, recognising that inner peace forms the foundation for peace with others, especially during demanding times such as the Year 12 exam period coming up.
As we reflect on the International Day of Peace, let us recommit ourselves as students, staff, and families to living out the values that create peace in our community and beyond. Inspired by Pope John XXIII and in the spirit of this year’s theme, let us remember that each small act of kindness, inclusion, and courage brings us closer to a peaceful world.
Janeen Murphy
Deputy Principal Faith and Mission
Community Mass
Thank you to Magis students who prepared our Eucharist this morning. Our first liturgy for Term 4 will be on Friday, 17 October, and will be prepared by Year 11 students.
If you have any questions about Community Mass, please contact Mary-Anne Lumley.
Community Mass details
- College Chapel
- Fridays in term time
- Starts at 8:00am concludes at 8:30am.
Sacraments
Congratulations to:
- Chloe Allia
- Abigail Ballem
- Benjamin Bourke
- Anais Bowditch
- Santiago Duff-Barrientos
- Donato Grose
- Joshua Haydon
- Lang Hedley
- Eloise Hurley
- Benjamin MacPherson
- Harrison Meyerkort
- Zara Morrone
- Michael Nicholas
- Giorgia Sommacal
- Zari Spiccia
- Aidan Thornton
- Julia Tirapelle
These Year 4 students recently made their First Holy Communion in the parish of St Joseph’s, Subiaco. The sacrament program is family-focused, parish-based and Catholic school-supported. We congratulate the students and their families for their preparation; we look forward to the students receiving Communion at College Masses.
Parents often have questions about the Sacrament program, so don’t be afraid to ask.
The parish priest or sacrament coordinator is the best point of contact for sacraments in a specific parish. For any general enquiries about the sacrament program, contact Mary-Anne Lumley or via phone on 08 9383 0513