Rector's Report
Greetings to you all!
Recently the Australian community lost a true community member with the passing of Neale Daniher. Neale was instrumental in taking the initiative to raise millions of dollars for the MND cause from which he personally suffered. Neale said that despite his circumstances he wanted to make a difference for those who would follow the same journey that life had dealt him.
Last Monday at the MCG for the King’s Birthday footy match, or the ‘Big Freeze’ as it has become known, (although not the result I expected), there was a great witness of how individuals have rallied behind this cause to find a cure. It was an amazing sight to see thousands of fans take up the challenge with the MCG awash with blue beanies. This is a living witness to all of us that when we individually put our minds, hearts and efforts into a cause we can make a difference no matter our own circumstances.
As we continue our life’s journey, with its own challenges, one of Neale’s quotes is worth sharing as it reminds us to also consider the needs of our brothers and sisters.
He said: “I hope to leave a legacy that says: “No matter what the odds, no matter the diagnosis, we all have the power to choose to fight, to choose our attitude, to choose to smile and to choose to do something. Because the mark of a person isn’t what they say, it’s what they do”.
This thought is also reflected in this Sunday’s scripture readings.
Gospel Reflection
In the Gospel we hear that Jesus is now sharing his mission with his disciples. The focus has shifted from the ministry of Jesus to the work of the community, you and I. The signs of the kingdom's presence consist of the work of Jesus by caring for the vulnerable with their many faces. Matthew's Gospel elaborates on the work of the Church, which is to continue after Jesus' death and resurrection. Like the disciples, through our baptism and in the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod, we are sent by Jesus to ‘Leave nothing undared for the Kingdom of God’.
In Neale’s passing the challenge for everyone is to continue his great legacy in support of others or as Neale says: ‘Play On’. This is the same challenge of Jesus for us. As Jesus sent his disciples to continue his work and mission, so too the Church, you and I, are sent by Jesus to be his continuing presence on earth. Every one of us is called, challenged and sent by Jesus to contribute in some way to his mission of caring for those in whatever need they have.
2026 Soccer World Cup
Nishan Velupillay (2019) has been selected to represent Australia at the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Nishan who plays for the Melbourne Victory, has represented the Socceroos at six occasions scoring three goals. His position was confirmed in the squad with an impressive 30-minute performance in friendly against Mexico. opening their World Cup campaign against Turkey on the 14th of June. Stayed tuned as Australia plays against the USA on the 20th of June and Paraguay on the 26th of June.
Nishan was part of Mazenod College’s all conquering 2019 Senior Soccer team lead by
Emilio, which won by the Senior ACC title as well as the Melbourne City FC Premier Schools Tournament.
Mazenod Parents & Friends
The dedicated group of volunteers from our Parents and Friends and beyond are still gathering to make rosaries that will be presented to the Year 7 2027 cohort when they begin their Mazenod journey next year. This week the P&F enjoyed a pizza evening and meeting. The next meeting will be held on August 26 at 6.00pm in the college staff room. All welcome. See you there!
Till the next time
Yours in Jesus Christ and Mary Immaculate
Fr Harry Dyer OMI