Catholic Identity & Mission

The College’s theme for this year, “Full of Grace: Transform the world with God’s Love”, was in action last week when the first of our volunteer groups attended the West Heidelberg Bread Run with the Exodus Foundation. 

Students and staff from Sion House left Marist-Sion at 3.00pm to head to the city to package and then deliver bread to households supported by the Exodus Foundation. Under the guidance of Mr Mazzolini, who has maintained a connection with Exodus for 9 years, students were able to actively help people in need, and most significantly, to be able to engage in conversation and break down barriers. 

This work recalls the recent words of Pope Leo: “In hearing the cry of those in need, we are asked to enter into the heart of God, who is always concerned for the needs of his children.” Certainly a holy and grace-filled encounter for our students. Each of our eight Houses will take a group of staff and student volunteers throughout the year to this valuable experience.

Term 1 always brings the spiritual journey of Lent, and we recently recognised Ash Wednesday through House Liturgies. Students and staff were invited to consider what they could 'fast' on, in order to make room for something greater to 'feast' on. Fasting on screen time, and feasting on time outdoors; fasting on social media, and feasting on real conversation (this one is a bit easier for our under-16s with the recent law changes!).

Our staff continue to engage in faith formation and professional learning in the Catholic Identity domain. We have been fortunate to have sessions run by the Marist Brothers for all staff at the start of the year and by the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion for new staff the following week. 

The Sionian value of dialogue particularly speaks such truth today, as the ability to listen and to seek understanding has the capability to 'transform the world'.

Mr Dale Clarke

Deputy Principal: Catholic Identity and Mission