Catholic Identity & Mission News

Over the past couple of weeks, Mr Hansen, Mr Lokuge and I have met with our Parish priests and our feeder primary school representatives to discuss ways that collaboratively, we can work to realise the Diocese of Sale’s Pastoral Plan. We are so fortunate to be nurtured by vital and flourishing parishes in St Agatha’s and St Thomas the Apostle, and their parish primary schools, St Agatha’s, St Therese’s, St Thomas the Apostle and St Josephine Bakhita (and soon, St Carlo Acutis). Together, we will work to promote shared language about Mission – that all should come to know and believe in the Good News of Jesus Christ. We are keen to continue and further expand St Peter’s students’ involvement in our young neighbours’ preparation for the sacraments and in developing their leadership potential. 

Our own senior students are currently discerning their own leadership opportunities as Year 11 students apply for College Executive positions for 2027. Having enjoyed their Leadership Reflection Day on August 11, it seems like a record number of students have nominated themselves for leadership position in 2027! How fortunate are we?! Nominees presented their speeches to staff and students on Tuesday this week and it was heartening that again, their aim is to be servant leaders. That is, leaders who will be low ego and high impact in the school, putting the needs of others before their own and developing initiatives that involve and develop as many students in the school as possible. They have had great role models in this year’s College Executive who, represented by our College Captains, reported back to Bishop Greg Bennet the achievements and lessons they’ve learned this year when they met with him on August 12. As their 12-month leadership journey nears its end, they will hand over the reigns to the 2027 cohort and I’m sure, will share their advice and support when they commence their tenures in Term 4. 

Finally, some of our FIRE Carrier students had a wonderful excursion day in the city on August 20, visiting the Koorie Heritage Trust and the Melbourne Museum. The purpose of this day out was to learn more about First Nations history, culture, skills and traditions. This will enable our FIRE Carrier students to be even better Indigenous allies, informed about the oldest surviving culture in the world. These students will provide leadership in our school, complementing the whole school vision of our Year 12 leaders. I think that bodes for a very bright year ahead! 

Fiona McKenna

Deputy Principal - Catholic Identity & Mission Leader