Faith Formation
and Mission
College Opening Mass
On Tuesday, we gathered for our first College Mass for 2026. This special gathering celebrated the beginning of the academic year in our College Community. We warmly welcomed Fr Andrew Grace who led our Eucharistic Liturgy, along with representatives of the Presentation Sisters, the Head of Boarding at Mount Erin, Mr John Bussenschutt and parents of our newly appointed College Captains. It was such a joy to come together to ask God’s blessing on our school community and individual pursuits this year.
The theme of our Mass was 'Letting Go To Grow’ which reflects the 2026 Diocesan theme ‘Pruning and Nurturing’. Drawing on the image of God as the vinedresser, students were encouraged to consider what in their lives may be holding them back from growth: unhelpful habits, pressures to fit in, unhealthy friendships; and to have the courage to let these go. At the same time, they were reminded to nurture what helps them flourish: healthy routines, supportive relationships, strong values, and prayer. Grounded in Christ, we are invited to trust God through the discomfort of growth, letting go of what hinders us so we can become who we are created to be.
Our Year 7 cohort led our entrance procession, bringing forward letters to their Year 12, future selves. These letters outline their hopes, dreams and aspirations for their future here at Mater Dei.
After communion, Fr Grace blessed our Captain’s badges, before their parents received these from Ms Thomas and pinned them on their sons and daughters.
To conclude our celebration our Homegroup representatives received their candles from their House Captains, being reminded of the light of Christ, showing us the way, and helping us to Live God’s Message.
“May the light of the candle and the warmth of its flame fill our hearts
with the light and warmth of God’s love.
May we share this light and warmth with each other.”
Following our Mass, parents and invited guests enjoyed lunch with our staff in the Pear Tree Cafe. It was a memorable occasion to commence our school year as a Catholic Learning Community.
Project Compassion Launch Mass
Students and staff gathered from around the Diocese to be commissioned by Bishop Mark as Project Compassion Ambassadors.
The 2026 them is "Unite Against Poverty". Ambassadors were inspired to head back into their schools and raise awareness for those in need this Lent.
2026 Year 12 Retreat
Year 12 Parents and Carers please attend to any permissions that need to be finalised. We will be leaving next week, Wednesday 18 to Friday 20 February. The bus will be departing at 7:30am sharp and Year 12 students are expected to arrive between 7:00am and 7:15am. We keep Year 12 in our prayers as they make preparations for Retreat.
Year 7 Reflection Day
On Thursday 26 February, Year 7 will share in a day of personal development and community building within a Catholic faith context. Engaging activities and personal testimony will be shared by Az Hamilton from Just Motivation.
Students may wear appropriate casual clothing on the day, along with enclosed footwear. Morning tea, consisting of cupcakes and fruit will be provided. Further information will be available shortly for parents/carers via Compass. We look forward to a wonderful day of reflection together!
National Apology Day Prayer
Creator Spirit of all,
We come to you united as your children.
May you comfort all those whose history on this land is a story of hurt and pain.
May your wisdom and guidance be with all who work towards a future of unity, reconciliation and peace within this Great South Land of the Holy Spirit.
We ask this prayer in the name of your Son Jesus Christ, Amen.
National Apology Day National Apology Day on 13 February commemorates the 2008 apology to Australia’s Indigenous Stolen Generations, focusing on healing, justice, and reconciliation.
Mrs Rebecca Gill | Leader of Faith Formation and Mission