Acting Assistant Principal - Religious Identity & Mission 

Thank you from Mr Venter

As I prepare to conclude my time at St Virgil’s College, I want to extend my deepest thanks for the support, trust, and partnership you have shown over the past three years. It has been an extraordinary privilege to work with your sons and to contribute, in some small way, to their growth as young men of character, compassion, and integrity.

St Virgil’s is a remarkable community, and the warmth and generosity with which you welcomed me will remain with me long after I return to Brisbane. I have been continually inspired by the commitment of families who value education, faith, and the wellbeing of their children so profoundly. The experiences we have shared — whether in the classroom, on the sidelines, or in moments of pastoral care — have shaped me both professionally and personally.

While I am looking forward to being closer to family in Brisbane, leaving this community is not easy. I will carry with me deep gratitude for the relationships formed, the lessons learned, and the many moments of joy that have made my time here so meaningful.

Thank you once again for your support and for the privilege of journeying with your sons. I wish you and your families every blessing for the years ahead.

SVC – Nativity Reflection and Christmas Appreciation  

Our amazing Library staff at the College have created a Christmas-themed Nativity/Christmas Appreciation this week, which was presented to our Year 7 and 8 Learning Groups.  

As we enter the Christmas season, we reflect on the profound significance of Christ’s birth and the message of hope, peace, joy, and love that defines this time in the Catholic tradition. The Nativity story, the symbols of the season, and the weeks of Advent all remind us of God’s enduring presence and the call to humility, compassion, and service. Across cultures, Christmas is celebrated with unique customs, yet its central themes of togetherness and gratitude remain universal.  

At the College, we continue to nurture this spirit through our Christmas Wishes activity, inviting students to write messages of appreciation for staff as a simple yet meaningful way to uplift others and strengthen community. This season encourages us to share kindness, generously, reflect in prayer, and embrace the joy that the Incarnation brings to our lives and work. 

Blessing for the Holidays 

God of all hope and holiness, 

As we gather in this sacred season, we give thanks for the mystery of the Incarnation, in which your eternal Word took flesh and dwelt among us. In the birth of Jesus Christ, true God, you reveal a love that descends into our human experience, sanctifying our joys and sorrows, our labour and rest, our relationships and responsibilities. We pray that this profound mystery will renew the hearts of all staff at St Virgil’s College, strengthening us in our vocation to form young people in faith, integrity, and compassion. 

Lord, as the light of Bethlehem breaks once more into our world, dispel whatever shadows burden us and guide us toward the peace proclaimed by the angels. May the humility of the Christ-child shape our leadership, the courage of Mary and Joseph inspire our service, and the hope of the Gospel anchor our work in truth and love. Grant us the grace to recognise your presence in one another and in the students entrusted to our care, so that, by your Spirit, we may be bearers of your light in this community.

St Virgil, pray for us.

Blessed Edmund Rice, pray for us.

Live Jesus in our hearts, forever. 

Amen.