Religious Education

St James College Celebrates the Feast Day of its Patron Saint

On Friday 26 July, the entire College Community gathered in the Brother Joseph Gabel Hall on a sunny Melbourne winter’s day, to celebrate the feast of our patron, St James the Apostle. We welcomed Fr Raju Jacob who celebrated this St James Day Mass, in his role as Holy Trinity Parish Priest. This occasion was also a celebration of the academic achievements of many of our young men during Semester 1. Over one hundred guests were in attendance to mark this very special occasion.

We were very pleased to have several De la Salle Brothers join us as special guests. Brother Michael Carroll, Brother Quentin O’Halloran and Brother Joseph Gabel (Principal 1985-1986) represented the Mentone Community. Brother Joseph also presented the prestigious St James the Apostle Awards to four very worthy recipients.

Year 7            Xavier Green

Year 8            William Kokotis

Year 9            George Aliss

Year 10          James Vakis

As we listened to the message of Matthew’s Gospel we become more aware of how, just like Jesus, we can use our own talents to serve others. Our celebration was an opportunity for us to thank God for continuing to enhance the lives of young people through the ministry of the St James College community.

As part of the Mass, St James College Principal, Mr Stephen Pooley spoke to us of the life of the apostle St James and he reminded us of the many ways in which we can actively live out our faith. Mr Pooley encouraged all of us to use the special gifts given to us by God as a service to others by recalling the words of St James, “faith without good works is dead”. He then challenged all present to be companions to each other and to emulate the commitment that St James demonstrated in the living of his life.

Our special Mass concluded with the presentation of awards for Year Level Duces, Academic Achievement and Academic Effort.

Following the liturgy, we gathered with families in the foyer of the VPAC Building for a light lunch. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the young men recognised during the celebration.

Martin Callanan

Religious Education Domain Leader