Principal's Update 

Building Peace, Strengthening Community

Over the past fortnight, our College community has been blessed with opportunities to gather in faith, celebrate learning, and witness the extraordinary contributions of our students and staff. Two significant events stand out: the Annual Wellington Shire Peace Mass and the official opening and blessing of our new Marian Kitchen.

Annual Wellington Shire Peace Mass

On Thursday 20 August, Catholic College Sale proudly hosted the Annual Wellington Shire Peace Mass, welcoming nearly 2,000 students, teachers, principals and staff from across our region.

First established in 2003 during the Gulf War, the Peace Mass has become a cherished tradition that brings together Catholic school communities from across the Wellington Shire to reflect on the importance of peace, unity, hope and compassion. Each year, this gathering reminds us that peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but a way of living that begins within each of us and extends into our families, schools and wider communities.

During the Mass, I challenged our students to consider the important role they play in creating a more peaceful world:

"Now more than ever, our schools must be places where tolerance, understanding, empathy, peace and love are not just spoken about, but lived. Each of us, from our youngest Prep students to our Year 12 leaders, has the power to make a difference. Through everyday actions inspired by grace, we can help transform our school, our community and, in our own way, our world."

These words resonated deeply throughout the celebration as students reflected on how their daily actions can positively influence others.

We were honoured to have Bishop Greg Bennet celebrate the Mass and share a powerful message with our young people. Bishop Greg encouraged students to recognise that peace begins in the human heart and grows through our relationships with others. He reminded us:

"We live in a world where so many millions of people, young and old, do not enjoy the peace, freedom and happiness we so often take for granted. As disciples of Jesus, we share in his life which transforms lives, heals hearts and unites all divisions. The love of Jesus does not confine us but truly opens our hearts to others."

His message reinforced the importance of living as people of faith who actively seek to build understanding, reconciliation and hope wherever we may be.

The success of the Peace Mass was made possible by the collective efforts of many people. I would like to sincerely thank the principals, staff and students from our local Catholic primary schools who joined us for this special occasion. Your presence continues to strengthen the bonds that unite our Catholic education community.

I also extend my gratitude to the many Catholic College Sale staff and students who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to plan, organise and support the event. Their commitment ensured the day ran seamlessly and provided a meaningful experience for all in attendance.

Many of the visiting dignitaries commented on the reverence of the celebration and the exemplary participation of our students. Their respectful engagement throughout the Mass reflected the values we seek to nurture each day and is something our entire community can be proud of.

Click here to read more about the Peace Mass. 

Celebrating the Opening of the Marian Kitchen

Another significant highlight of the day was the official opening and blessing of the Marian Kitchen, an exciting new addition to Catholic College Sale that will provide authentic and engaging learning opportunities for generations of students to come.

The Marian Kitchen marks the culmination of several years of planning, consultation and design. More than a new facility, it is a tangible expression of our commitment to creating contemporary learning environments that prepare students for future pathways and success beyond school.

We were honoured to welcome Bishop Greg Bennet, who blessed the facility and unveiled the commemorative plaque alongside Br Darren Burge, Provincial of the Marist Brothers, and Mrs Leonie Keaney, Chair of the Catholic College Sale Board. Joining us for this special occasion were representatives of Marist Schools Australia, the Diocese of Sale, and the Sisters of Sion, as well as principals from local Catholic and Marist schools.

One of the most memorable aspects of the celebration was the outstanding lunch our students prepared and served. Their professionalism, attention to detail and hospitality showcased not only their developing skills but also their pride in this remarkable new learning space.

The Marian Kitchen will give students opportunities to develop practical hospitality skills in a real-world environment. Looking ahead, we hope the facility will become an important connection point with our broader community, allowing students to gain valuable experience while serving guests and developing confidence in industry-standard settings.

I would particularly like to acknowledge Mr Nathan Smith for his leadership and vision throughout thisproject’s development. His dedication has helped create a state-of-the-art hospitality learning centre that will support our students in acquiring valuable skills, experiences and pathways into the hospitality industry. The Marian Kitchen is a testament to what thoughtful planning, commitment, and a focus on student learning can achieve.

As we move through the remainder of the term, may we continue to embrace the message at the heart of our Peace Mass: to be people who live with empathy, understanding and compassion. Through small acts of kindness, respect, and service, each of us can bring peace to our school, our community, and our world.

God bless.

Brett Van Berkel