Mission and Identity
From the Mission and Identity Team
Lenten Reflection
Last Sunday’s Gospel from Luke tells the story of Jesus’ Transfiguration. Jesus takes three of his disciples to a mountain to pray, and as He prays, His appearance changes—His face shines, and his clothes become dazzling white. It is then that two great figures from Jewish history, Moses and Elijah, appear. Then, a cloud covers them, and a voice says, “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to Him.”
This moment is about transformation, not just for Jesus but for those around him. It reminds us that change happens when we take time to step away from the noise of daily life and reflect. Whether you are a person of faith or not, the idea of pausing, listening, and allowing yourself to grow is universal.
The season of Lent encourages us to take this kind of journey. It’s a time to think about where we are in life and how we might become better—more patient, kinder, more open to others. The voice from the cloud says, “Listen.” Maybe that means listening to the needs of others, to our own inner voice, or to the wisdom that can shape us. Transformation is possible for all of us if we take the time to step away and truly see.
Martina O’Connell
Assistant Principal Mission and Identity
Social Justice at Loreto
The Peace and Justice Group is an inclusive social justice co-curricular group that meets each Monday at lunchtime and invites students from Years 7 to 12 to get involved in supporting individuals experiencing hardship in Adelaide. This group focuses on creating a compassionate club where students can work together to make a positive difference. We partner with the local parish at St Ignatius Church and other organisations that aid those in need and raises awareness about social issues affecting vulnerable people in Adelaide.
In collaboration with the Year 12 Social Justice Captains, Sophia and Lyla, the Peace and Justice Group has focussed its Term 1 efforts in organising Purple Day, an annual fundraiser that supports Project Compassion, an initiative of Caritas Australia. Purple Day aims to raise vital funds for the programs and initiatives that Caritas implements to help people in need both nationally and internationally. Through the efforts of the students, the event highlights the importance of compassion, justice, and solidarity in tackling issues such as poverty, inequality, and human rights.
The primary aim of the Peace and Justice Group is to foster a sense of social responsibility and empathy among students, encouraging them to act for a more just and equitable society. The group's work serves as a reminder of the power of collective effort in addressing the challenges faced by marginalised communities. Ultimately, the group seeks to inspire future leaders who are committed to promoting peace, justice, and compassion in both their local and global communities.
Nancy Rodi
Learning Leader Religious Education
Lent Project Compassion Appeal
Prayer and Social Justice Leaders led a beautiful Junior School liturgy to officially launch the Lent Project Compassion Appeal. This appeal encourages our school community to reflect on the season of Lent, embrace acts of charity, and support those in need. We invite all families to participate in the appeal and help make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Year 5 Chapel Mass – National Close the Gap Day
On National Close the Gap Day, Year 5 students led a special Chapel Mass, celebrated by Fr Chris Jenkins, to mark this significant occasion. The Mas focused on raising awareness for Indigenous health issues and promoting equality and justice for all Australians. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of reconciliation and working together for a better future.
Sacramental Program Parent Information Evening
In a bid to strengthen our community and support our new families, a Parent Information Evening was held in the Chapel. The evening, led by Fr Chris Jenkins and Mrs Roberts, was dedicated to welcoming new parents to the Sacramental Program for 2025. We are excited to journey with our students and families as they prepare to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation, and First Communion in Term 2.
We look forward to celebrating these milestones with them and their families as they continue to grow in faith.
Isabelle Roberts
Junior School REC and College Liturgist
Lenten reflections at St Ignatius Parish Norwood
Please find below the details Lenten reflections being hosted by St Ignatius Parish Norwood.
Wednesday - March 26, 7.00pm in the Church
Directed by Fr Chris Jenkins SJ with a particular focus on religious artwork.
Wednesday - April 2nd at 7.00pm in the Hall
Directed by Yvonne Ashby who has long been affiliated with St Ignatius Parish, Norwood. She was educated at St Joseph Primary School, St Peters, and Loreto College Marryatville. As a Graphic Design graduate, Yvonne worked in Illustration, Design, and Visual. Arts. From 2004 to 2017 Yvonne was affiliated with the Adelaide College of Divinity, Brooklyn Park as Artist in Residence. “I was given space to work in an Ecumenical community, I became immersed in College life and enrolled as a student.” The exhibition showcases Yvonne’s journey from an artist’s perspective as she grappled with topics of Theology and the Biblical studies program. Inspired by leading educators, her artwork reflects the nature of issues relating to the themes of Creation, Sacraments, Service and Spirituality.
For any enquiries, please contact Norwood Parish on 8332 0600 or office@norwoodparish.org.au.