Faith and Mission
From the Mission and Identity Team
Journeying with Mary Ward
The influence of the Martyrs
During our time on pilgrimage we learned about the English Martyrs, people who died for their faith at the time of persecution. York’s most famous Martyr was Margaret Clitheroe, who was executed in 1586 for harbouring Catholic priests during Elizabeth I's reign. Margaret Clitheroe was known as the "Pearl of York," her unwavering faith led her to endure a ‘pressing to death’, a brutal form of execution. Willing to risk everything for God, Margaret Clitheroe's devotion and sacrifice symbolised her deep religious conviction and trust in God. Mary Ward grew up hearing stories about Margaret Clitheroe and other Martyrs like her, and she was fascinated by them. Of course, we also know that Mary Ward’s family, like many recusant Catholics, hid priests to protect them from arrest and execution. This involved significant risk, as hiding priests was a crime punishable by death. The sanctuary that they provided to priests enabled them to celebrate Mass and administer sacraments in secret.
Hearing about the Martyrs and later thinking about Mary Ward and her family invited me to reflect on the questions: how can the stories of Margaret Clitheroe and the Ward family inspire us to support and protect those who face religious persecution in the world today, and what does it mean to risk everything for your faith, and how can we demonstrate such commitment in our daily lives?
World Environment Day – Beanies and Blankets Day
Integral ecology emphasises the interconnectedness of all life forms and the environment, recognising that social and ecological issues are intertwined. Integral Ecology calls us to adopt sustainable practices that honour this interconnectedness, ensuring the health and vitality of ecosystems for future generations. The Loreto province of Australia and Southeast Asia highlights ‘Ecological Justice’ as one of the Five Justice Priorities.
On June 5, the Junior and Senior schools turned off their light and heat to highlight the impact that humans have on the planet. This simple gesture encouraged our staff and students to think about the impact that we have, and that small acts such as turning off light and heat and putting on an extra jumper or blanket can have a big impact.
Next Tuesday, our Junior and Senior Social Justice Leaders and Environment Committees will come together to sort out all items before they are donated over the next few weeks.
Our Liturgical Life
First Communion and Confirmation
On Sunday, May 26, our school community gathered to celebrate a significant milestone for 17 of our students who received their First Communion and Confirmation. This joyous event marked the completion of our sacramental program, a journey that began with the Sacrament of Reconciliation on May 9. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the girls and their families for their dedication and commitment to their faith.
Liturgies and Community Celebrations
Each week, we celebrate Monday liturgy for the Junior School enriching our faith and bringing us closer together. Liturgies in recent weeks have included:
Feast of Pentecost Liturgy: Year 4 Gold led a beautiful liturgy to celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, reminding us of the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in our lives. At this liturgy, we prayed for our Year 4 students who prepared to receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Communion on the following weekend.
National Reconciliation Week: Year 6 Blue organised a meaningful liturgy during National Reconciliation Week, fostering reflection and commitment to reconciliation and understanding.
World Environment Day: Year 6 Gold took the lead in celebrating World Environment Day, emphasising our responsibility to care for God’s creation and promote sustainability. Following this liturgy, the Vinnies Winter Appeal was launched by Social Justice leaders who spoke about the importance of empathy and community support in addressing the needs of the less fortunate during the harsh winter months. They highlighted how small acts of kindness and generosity can make a significant difference in the lives of those struggling with poverty and homelessness.
Chapel Masses and Special Liturgies
Our Chapel Masses have been an essential part of our spiritual life. Fr Chris Jenkins, Parish Priest at St Ignatius celebrated chapel mass with the girls.
Year 9 celebrated mass with a focus on Laudato Si’, an encyclical that was written by Pope Francis in 2015 calling for an urgent response to the ecological crisis facing our planet. The girls reflected on their responsibilities as stewards of the earth and their contribution towards a sustainable future.
The Year 8 Chapel mass focused on National Reconciliation Week. Father Chris celebrated a special liturgy highlighting the themes of reconciliation and unity.
Junior School - Vinnies Winter Appeal
At our Monday liturgy, the Junior School Social Justice Leaders proudly launched the Vinnies Winter Appeal. This initiative encourages our community to support those in need during the colder months. We invite everyone to contribute generously to this worthy cause, reflecting the compassion and service that define our school’s values.
We are grateful for the participation and enthusiasm of our students, staff, and families in all these events. Together, we continue to nurture a strong, faith-filled community, dedicated to learning, growth, and service.
Ms Martina O'Connell
Assistant Principal: Mission and Identity