Director of Mission

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble. Therefore we will not fear…”

Psalm 46:1-2

We are stepping into new territory day by day at the moment and our very nature, in many facets, is being tested. As humans, it is natural for us to immediately see the rapid changes and respond in fear. It is primal to fear what we may lose, what may affect our own securities. Security of happiness, joy and safety. As we seek refuge and strength, it is only just, that we do so as the Psalms point out. Fear is not the answer, only strength. Strength will be found amongst each other at these times. We must see love as a priority and share it to our neighbour.

There has been unfortunate cancellation of many events on all of our calendars. I was offered a suggestion that maybe with this time of different degrees of isolation, we can take it to focus on ourselves and our immediate families. It allows us to assess what brings us real happiness, joy and safety as we clear our agendas. We begin to focus on our loved ones, and prioritise the things that we could definitely not ‘postpone’. Maybe there, we will find a moment to be grateful. That is how we will find strength and then offer that to our neighbour.

This week I sat down with our College Chaplain, Fr Paul who spoke of his role and mission here at Marian. In his own words he declared it was to “walk alongside the students” on their journey. Nothing could be more important at this time than walking alongside each other. As ‘isolation’ is put in place it is our role to remind everyone in the Marian Community to remember to aid others, including the world that we live in.

It is in this light, that our initiative of Supporting Australian Wildlife continues this term. I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate everyone who has made contributions. We are currently sitting at $1700, moving steadily to our goal of $3000 by end of term. In particular, I would like to highlight three homerooms who have already moved to the ‘Homeroom Hall of Fame’ status.

9.4 Ms Covell, 8.6 Mrs Griffiths /Mrs Dumbleton (Pictured Below) and 7.5 Mr Salton.

Congratulations to the wonderful efforts of these homeroom families. Our students are amazing and this shows in their everyday actions. Watching the student body carry on with their daily work with laughter is a refreshing sight. Like the brilliant artwork that popped up on Mr Rizzeri’s classroom window, the College continues to build as a place of beauty, wonder, learning and peace.

So let’s not lose our focus. These are not times to talk about other events that pale in comparison and priority. Therefore, this newsletter will be concise. As I have stated, our focus should be on each other and I openly invite all suggestions where you think we can do more as a Marian Community to remain ‘Vibrant’ in these times. If there is a way in which you feel we could be demonstrating the elements of our Vision of Service, Care, Stewardship and faith through learning, in this environment, please let us know. If we can help you, simply ask.

Have a great weekend, reach out to others and take care of yourselves.

Kind regards

Heath Neville

Director of Mission