From the Leader of Faith and Mission

Honouring All Souls Day

In honour of All Souls’ Day, staff and students of the college were invited to add the names of loved ones who have passed away to our Book of Remembrance. This reflective practice allowed our community to remember and celebrate the lives of those who hold a special place in our hearts.

During lunch, a prayer service was held in the school chapel, where members of our community prayed for those who have passed, including the prayer for eternal rest:

"Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace."

Guests were also invited to light a candle in memory of loved ones, creating a beautiful and reverent moment of remembrance.

The service provided a meaningful opportunity for our school community to come together, reflect, and find comfort in faith, as we honour the lives of those who have gone before us.

Year 11 Accelerated Studies of Religion Students Complete the HSC Course

Congratulations to our Year 11 Accelerated Studies of Religion class, who have successfully completed the HSC course and sat their final examinations in Week 2.

Throughout the year, these dedicated students have demonstrated exceptional commitment and maturity as they engaged deeply with topics exploring examining the nature and role of religion and belief systems in the lives of individuals and the community. Balancing the demands of an accelerated program alongside their Year 11 studies, they have modelled excellent academic discipline and enthusiasm for learning.

We commend them for their perseverance and effort, and we wish them every success as they await their HSC results later this year. Their achievement is a testament to their hard work and the ongoing support of their teachers and families.

This week, the College commenced the process for the 2026 Accelerated Studies of Religion program. Year 9 students attended an information session, and parents received a letter outlining the details and application process. This program will enable selected students to undertake the HSC Studies of Religion course during Years 10 and 11, offering a challenging and enriching academic experience that fosters critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of religion in today’s world.

Giving Thanks for Our Catechists’ Faithful Service

The College extends its sincere gratitude to our Year 10 and Year 11 Special Religious Education Teachers (Catechists) for their generous service throughout this year. Through their involvement in the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) program, these students have shared the Catholic faith with children at Glenmore Park Primary School, teaching students in Kindergarten, Year 1, and Year 2. Through their witness and commitment, they have played a vital role in nurturing the spiritual growth of young children and fostering a sense of God’s love within the wider community.

To honour this service our Year 10 Catechists were fortunate to attend the annual CCD Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta, celebrated by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv. The Mass was a joyful celebration of thanksgiving for all those who serve as Catechists across the Diocese, recognising their important contribution to nurturing faith in the lives of children attending government schools.

This year marks the 26th anniversary of the College’s ongoing involvement in the Catechist program within the Glenmore Park and Penrith Parishes. We give thanks for all students and staff who have contributed to this ministry over the years, continuing to live out the Gospel call to serve others through faith and action.

FIAT - Launch of the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Hampers Appeal

Each year, our college comes together to support those in need in our community through the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Hampers Appeal. Thanks to the generosity of our students, staff, and families, we are able to put together 30+ hampers to ensure that no one goes without at Christmas. As a college community, this outreach provides a meaningful way for us to put our faith into action, showing compassion, generosity, and service to others.

This year, the appeal will run during Term 4, Week 5 and Week 6. Each homeroom will receive a list of items needed to create a Christmas celebration, and students are encouraged to nominate an item to bring in. Items may include non-perishable food, drinks, Christmas decorations, or small gifts that will help families celebrate the season. For families who prefer, gift cards can be donated or monetary donations can be made conveniently through the school’s Qkr! app.

Alternatively, families may donate gift cards or contribute money through the school’s Qkr! app to support the hampers.

By participating in this appeal, our school community continues to show the values of compassion, generosity, and service, helping to bring joy and hope to those in need during the festive season.

Mrs Di Larsen

FIAT Coordinator

FIAT - Students Prepare for the Australian Catholic Youth Festival

In just four weeks, 2 staff members and 5 students will travel to Melbourne to attend the Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF), joining thousands of young Catholics from across the country for a celebration of faith, friendship, and mission. The Festival provides a unique opportunity for students to experience the vibrancy of the Church, engage in prayer and worship, participate in workshops, and connect with like-minded young people who are passionate about living out their faith.

Over the coming weeks, our students will participate in a series of formation events to prepare them as pilgrims for this exciting journey. These sessions will help them grow in leadership, reflect on their personal faith, and explore ways to actively contribute to their communities both during the Festival and back at school. Students will also be encouraged to think about how they can live out the Gospel in practical ways, bringing hope, compassion, and joy to those around them.

The ACYF promises to be a life-changing experience, equipping our young people to be pilgrims of hope who carry the lessons, friendships, and inspiration from Melbourne back to our school community. We look forward to seeing how this journey will strengthen their faith and their commitment to making a positive difference in the world.

Mrs Di Larsen

FIAT Coordinator

Mrs Jeanette Cocks

Leader of Faith and Mission