Mission & Identity

A reflection from Pope Francis

As Pope Francis continues to be unwell it is appropriate that we reflect on some of the wonderful writings that he has contributed to the Catholic cannon during his term as Pope. One of his encyclicals that continues to inspire me is the Christus Vivit (Christ is Alive?) document. In it, Pope Francis speaks directly to young people, asking questions and posing changes that aim to introduce the young to a world that is full of life and hope.

Two quotes from the middle of the document, Christus Vivit 143 and 146, are particularly relevant today.

CV 143

‘Don’t observe life from a balcony. Don’t confuse happiness with an armchair or live your life behind a screen. Whatever you do, do not become the sorry sight of an abandoned vehicle! Don’t be parked cars…don’t be afraid to fly.’

CV 146

Far from obsessively seeking new pleasures, which would keep us from making the most of the present moment, we are asked to open our eyes and take a moment to experience fully and with gratitude every one of life’s little gifts’.

During the season of Lent where we are asked to pray, fast and give alms, let's take the words of Pope Francis with us as we live our lives more fully and ‘not observe it from a balcony!

Project Compassion

As a college, we are actively supporting Project Compassion throughout Lent. The money boxes for Project Compassion are being brought around to homerooms every morning and are present throughout the College. One of the Lenten observances that we are called to follow is that of almsgiving. During my reflection at the Ash Wednesday liturgies last week, I mentioned that the boys might like to participate in this by contributing some of their own pocket money to this worthy cause.

ECSI survey 

Recently we sent home the documents for each of our families to participate in the Enhancing Catholic School’s Identity (ECSI) survey. This survey is conducted by Catholic schools every five years, and this year it is our turn.

We would appreciate it if you could take some time out of your busy schedules to complete the survey. The results of the survey will give us a snapshot in time as to where our college sits among the other Catholic colleges in the state.

St Patrick’s Day

Monday will see us celebrate the feast day of the Patron Saint of our school St Patrick. The day promises to be one that encapsulates the four pillars of our College. We will celebrate Mass at the beginning of the day, followed by an assembly that will see our Year 12 students receive their Year level badge. The boys will then receive the traditional green donut at recess. Following recess, the boys will participate in a series of house activities coordinated by our house leaders. At lunch the boys will be treated to a free BBQ, sausages, soft drink and a giant snake will be offered. Please note that the canteen will be closed for the day. The day will culminate with the house singing contest, which has become a high point of the year, and the senior boys have been working hard to ensure they are in fine voice come Monday afternoon. Faith, Tradition, Excellence and Joy will all be on display.

Weekly Mass

Weekly Mass has returned and will be held at 1.50pm each Thursday afternoon. All are most welcome to attend.

Have a great week,

God Bless you all.