Faith Formation
and Mission
NEAA Student Leadership Conference - Iona Presentation College Perth
“We were fortunate enough to travel over to Perth for the Nagle Education Alliance of Australia (NEAA) leadership conference at IONA Presentation College. Throughout the days we took part in multiple sessions including Irish dancing, a presentation response to homelessness and "Spark Tank” where we reimagined our presentation charism. At the end of the last day we are invited to a special conference dinner.
We also enjoyed a special Conference Dinner and lovely Liturgies with String Orchestras and Choral Groups. Other memorable experiences included the Irish High Tea and creating Glass Crosses for today’s lantern bearers.
The conference was an opportunity to develop our knowledge of Nano and the Presentation Sisters, on how they paved the way for not only our school but other schools in our Catholic community from right across Australia. During the event we visited the convent where the sisters used to live and share their stories and journeys with not just each other but the children that they worked with. This experience highlighted the true scope of their impact and influence, and it made us feel proud to be part of the event.”
Audrey De Jong and Alayna Neyland - Year 10 Students
Feast of the Assumption Mass - 15 August
On Monday 17 August, the Mater Dei Catholic College and Mater Dei Catholic Primary School communities came together to celebrate Mass in honour of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mary holds a sacred place in the mission of both our Schools, which are named in Latin, Mater Dei - meaning; Mother of God.
The theme of our Mass was "In Service and in Love", reminding us of Mary's willingness to say "yes" to God and to serve others with a loving heart. Through her example, we are encouraged to live out our own call to service, compassion and love in our school and wider community.
We were grateful to Bishop Mark for celebrating the Mass and to all our fantastic readers, musicians and students who led our celebration. The celebration ended with a special morning tea for both staff and parents from both communities.
“Mary shows us the way.”
Day in the Diocese
‘Day in the Diocese’ is a special gathering for young people from schools across our Diocese that is occurring today, Friday 28 August. It’s a chance to come together, celebrate our faith, encounter Jesus and discover what it means to be hope-filled students in today’s world.
The celebratory day is divided into three parts: catechesis, encounter and liturgy. We pray that this experience is enriching for our students and staff.
Parish Schools Mass
This Saturday, August 30 at 5.30pm we will join with Mater Dei Primary School and Sacred Heart Primary School to celebrate Mass at Sacred Heart Kooringal. Everyone is welcome to join us!
MEBS Year 12 Farewell Mass
On Wednesday 2 September we will gather for a very special evening to farewell our Mount Erin Boarding School (MEBS) students at a beautiful Mass celebrated by Bishop Mark and Father Grace. Congratulations to our departing boarders, Mia Hines and Maya Prentice.
Reflection Days
Last week our Year 8 and Year 10 students participated in their annual Reflection Days. Based on Catholic Christian values and using the personal testimony of two dynamic presenters from ‘Your Choicez’, students explored relationships and connections.
Social Justice Sunday - Sunday 30 August
The 2026 Social Justice Sunday theme is “Living the Gospel in Times of Social Division.”
May this Sunday be an opportunity for us to reflect on what it means to truly live the Gospel in a divided world. Give us eyes to notice, voices to speak, and courage to act. Challenge us to live what we believe and to make room for others.
Prayer in the lead up to Father’s Day
Loving God,
We honour all fathers and father figures;
those who nurture, guide, encourage and love.
Thank you for the many ways they contribute to our daily lives and model care, understanding and compassion.
Bless them with strength, wisdom and joy, and may they know how deeply they are valued and appreciated.
We ask this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mrs Rebecca Gill | Leader of Faith Formation and Mission