Principal

Second Week of Lent

Mark 9:2-10: “Jesus, accompanied by Peter, James, and John, underwent a miraculous transformation on a secluded mountain, where his appearance became dazzlingly white. There, Elijah and Moses appeared and conversed with Him. Overcome by the moment, Peter suggested building shelters for each. A divine voice affirmed Jesus as the beloved Son, urging them to heed His words. Following this profound experience, Jesus cautioned them to keep the event confidential until His resurrection, leaving them contemplative about its significance.”

In last Sunday’s Gospel, we heard Mark’s account of the Transfiguration. The practical lesson we learn from the Transfiguration is not so much in the vision itself. Notice that Jesus took them up a high mountain in order to do this revelation. But at the end of the passage, they had to come back down the mountain and resume their everyday life. That is the practical lesson for us all. So often, we have a great spiritual experience. It may be because we were on a retreat or a reflection day. Or maybe we went on an immersion experience. Or it could have been simply some time spent in nature. It could be that the experience felt so good that we didn’t want to leave. The Apostles’ experience at the Transfiguration reminds us that no matter how powerful a spiritual experience is, the time comes when we have to come down off the mountain and rejoin our everyday life.

But when we do so, we need to do it as a changed person. A spiritual experience is supposed to change the way we look at life, the way we approach life and the way we react with others. The experience does us no good if it just makes us want to stay away from our Christian duties and simply enjoy the good feelings. It also does us no good if we come back to our normal life not having changed at all, just continuing to live the same as before. Strong spiritual experiences are good, and we should seek them out. But they are also meant to change us so that we can have a positive effect on the world around us. It is important that we don’t forget that.

Swimming Carnival

Last week, the secondary lads enjoyed a vibrant swimming carnival out at SOPAC and the primary students will have theirs in a couple of weeks. I know of many schools that have done away with their swimming carnival, and instead, they take their championship students out to run their races without a crowd. In many secondary schools, they are challenged to have all the students participate so it is so wonderful to see our boys participating with such gusto! At St Patrick’s College, we continue to host our carnivals because they play a vital role in enhancing our College’s culture. 

How?

• Community Building: Our carnival creates a sense of community. Students, parents/carers, and teachers come together to enjoy games, food, and entertainment. The shared experience fosters connections and strengthens relationships within the school community.
   
• Celebrating Achievements: Our carnival provides an opportunity to celebrate student achievements. Our carnival is a platform for recognising and appreciating student talents.
   
• Promoting Inclusivity: Everyone can participate in our carnival, regardless of their abilities or interests. There's something for everyone. This inclusivity reinforces the idea that every student is valued and has a place in the school community.
   
• Stress Relief and Fun: School life can be demanding, but carnivals offer a break from routine. Students can unwind, laugh, and enjoy themselves. The joy and laughter at the carnival contribute to a positive school atmosphere. It is wonderful to be present at the staff vs student relay where we get a chance to have a role reversal with our students.
   
• Creating Lasting Memories: School days are filled with memories, and carnivals add to that treasure trove. Whether it's winning a prize, chanting our house war cries, or wearing a fancy costume, these moments become cherished memories for students. Our Year 12 students did a wonderful job on the day and whipping up excitement with their clever costumes and war cries and the final photo of the day will be a treasured memento for them.

In summary, our swimming carnival contributes to a vibrant and connected school culture by fostering community, celebrating achievements, promoting inclusivity, providing stress relief, and creating lasting memories. 

In Memoriam

• Please keep Mr Menck in your prayers as he laid to rest his beloved stepfather last week.
   
• Also, Mr Gad received some terrible news over the weekend that his brother, Dr Victor Samy Gad passed away in Egypt after a very successful life as the Dean of Psychiatric, Neurological Diseases and Counselling at one of the major universities in Egypt and the Head of Department of Psychiatry at Banha Hospital.
   
• Also, Jacob Chidiac (Year 12) and Old Boy Damon Chidiac (’23) on the loss of their grandfather, Mr Gabriel Afif. 

Dr Vittoria Lavorato

Principal

SPC boys can do anything! 

**except divide by zero