Mission and Identity
From the Mission and Identity Team
The Art of Giving
…you will learn with all your other accomplishments, the noble and beautiful art of Giving Generously. The amount given is of little consequence, provided that it is given with a loving and generous heart, and a desire to give more if it were possible. The Art of Giving is learned by giving.
Mother Gonzaga Barry
As we being the approach to Christmas, our thoughts naturally turn to the excitement of the season and all that it brings. Sometimes we are drawn to think about the deeper meaning of giving in a world that often moves quickly. When these days fill easily with tasks and responsibilities, the act of giving invites us to slow down, to notice those around us, and to respond with compassion.
Mother Gonzaga Barry was correct when she said that generously giving is an art.
It is not measured by the size or cost of a gift, but by the intention behind it. The art of giving is found in the quiet decision to place someone else at the centre for a moment; in the generosity that asks nothing in return; in the understanding that small acts of kindness can ripple far beyond what we might imagine.
At school, we see this art alive in our community every day in the way students encourage one another, in families who volunteer their time generously, and in the countless small acts that create a culture of care. During this time of year, we are invited to extend this spirit even further through our support of the Vinnies Christmas Hamper Appeal.
For many families across Adelaide, Christmas can be a time of financial strain. A filled hamper provided by Vinnies with our support, can be a reminder that they are not forgotten, someone is thinking of them, caring for them, and wishing them hope.
When we contribute to the Vinnies Appeal, we are not simply donating items; we are offering dignity, connection and joy. We are helping to create spaces where families can experience joy on Christmas Day with a little more comfort and a little less worry.
As a school community grounded in justice, we invite all families to join us in this act of hope. Every contribution will make a difference to someone.
Together, we can help ensure that the warmth of Christmas reaches beyond our gates and into the homes of those who need it most.
The Season of Advent 2025: A Time of Hope.
As November draws to a close, we once again enter the Season of Advent, a deeply meaningful time in the life of the Church. Advent—which begins this year on Sunday 30 November 2025—invites us into four weeks of preparation as we ready our hearts for the celebration of Christ’s birth.
Advent is a season rich with symbolism and purpose. The lighting of the Advent wreath weekly, reminds us that this is not a season of rushing, but of waiting with expectation. In a world that often moves quickly toward the noise and busyness of Christmas, Advent offers us the call to slow down, make space, and prepare with intention.
Advent resonates beautifully with our Loreto values. It is a time to look inward with honesty, to consider how we can bring light to others, and to recognise the presence of God in the ordinary moments of each day. Whether through acts of kindness, moments of stillness, or opportunities for service, Advent encourages us to make room for hope both for ourselves and for one another.
As we look forward to this Season of Advent, may our hearts be open to wonder, our minds attuned to peace, and our actions guided by generosity and compassion. Advent calls us to prepare not only for Christmas Day but for a renewed way of seeing, hoping, and walking together as a community.
This Christmas, Help Women Like Grace Build a Brighter Future
Just a year ago, Grace, a young mother in Nairobi, was barely scraping by on informal, low-paying work to feed her family.
Then Grace joined a training program supported by Mary Ward International. She learned carpentry, gained steady employment, and discovered a renewed sense of purpose.
Today, Grace provides for her daughter, saves for her education, and dreams of opening her own workshop to train other women.
Through programs in carpentry, business, cookery, and digital skills, women like Grace are breaking gender barriers, starting their own businesses, and transforming their communities.
This Christmas, give the gift of hope and opportunity.
Martina O’Connell
Assistant Principal: Mission & Identity