Director Faith and Mission
Mrs Loretta Shannon
Honouring Mary – Our College Namesake
At St Mary’s College, Mary holds a special place in the life and identity of our community. As our college namesake, she offers us a powerful example of faith, courage, humility and trust in God. Her willingness to say “yes” to God reminds us that faith is not simply something we believe, but something we are called to live through our choices, relationships and service to others.
On 15 August, the Church celebrated the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, when we remember the Catholic belief that, at the end of her earthly life, Mary was taken body and soul into the glory of heaven. The Assumption is a celebration of hope, reminding us of God’s promise of eternal life and the fullness of life to which we are all called.
We continue our celebration of Mary on 22 August with the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In honouring Mary as Queen of Heaven, we recognise a very different kind of queenship, one founded not on power, status or privilege, but on faithful service, compassion and love. Mary’s greatness is found in her openness to God and her willingness to place her life at the service of others.
For us at St Mary’s College, these two celebrations invite us to consider how we might follow Mary’s example: to listen with open hearts, to trust when the way ahead is uncertain, and to have the courage to say “yes” when we are called to serve. We will celebrate Mary further on 8 September – St Mary’s College Feast Day.
As a community that proudly carries Mary’s name, may her example continue to inspire us to be Guided by Faith and Driven by Purpose, bringing the love of Christ to others through the way we live each day.
A Prayer for the Queenship of Mary
Student Work in Faith Education
Liturgical Calendar
Ordinary Time
We now return to Ordinary Time in the Church’s liturgical year.
While the name may sound like this is a “less important” season, Ordinary Time is anything but ordinary. It is a time for growth, a time when we are invited to live out the message of Jesus in the everyday moments of our lives.
After the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, we are sent forth as the disciples were: to be people of faith, hope, and love in our community. In the rhythm of school life, this means showing kindness in the playground, patience in the classroom, and compassion in our relationships.
Ordinary Time reminds us that holiness is found not only in special celebrations, but in daily life - in the small choices we make, the way we treat one another, and the care we show to those around us. As we continue through the term, may we be open to the Spirit at work within us, and strive to live out our faith in simple, meaningful ways each day.
St Mary’s College Sacramental Program 2026
If you are interested in your child completing their Sacrament of Eucharist, see the schedule for 2026. Families will receive notifications via PAM as the events come closer.
Any questions please email Mrs. Loretta Shannon at the College loretta.shannon@smseymour.catholic.edu.au
Ooshie Trading Day
Ooshie Trading Day – Trade, Share, Make a Difference!
We are excited to introduce our Ooshie Trading Day for students in Years 3–6, (Foundation – 2 will be announced soon) combining some lunchtime fun with an opportunity to support the important work of Caritas Australia.
Students are invited to bring along Ooshies they have permission from home to trade and, with a $2 donation to Caritas Australia, join our Ooshie Trading Day.
Students will be encouraged to trade fairly, respectfully and kindly, with all trades agreed upon by both students.
This initiative provides a simple but meaningful way for our students to put faith into action. Funds raised will support Caritas Australia in its work with communities experiencing poverty and disadvantage, reminding us that even small actions can make a difference.
Date: Wednesday 26 August
Time: Lunchtime
Location: Ms Patterson’s Room
Cost: $2 donation to Caritas Australia
Permission forms are available from Primary teachers.
Please see the accompanying flyer for full details and trading guidelines.
Trade • Share • Make a Difference!
Blessings!
Mrs Loretta Shannon
Director Faith and Mission