From the Rector

Dear Fellow Mazenodians,

On behalf of the Oblates I would like to share some of the great opportunities and moments of Grace felt here at the College and beyond over the past two weeks.

I was very honored to join with the Year 7 and 10 Mothers and Sons events and to see what tremendous bonds of love exist there. Our community is stronger when we gather together and these were one of those strength moments.

After we held a Staff Formation and Reflection Day last Friday, I ventured deep into Wheatbelt territory to visit boarding families in Bencubbin, Beacon and Pithara where I was treated to a great Mazenod Family welcome. I was able to witness some very welcome rain, seethe seeding process in action as well as “helping” with the lamb tailing process.

Our Mazenod community is deeply enriched by the combination of Perth families and country families. In so many ways, our Perth families assist, support and care for our boarders and I assure you that that is appreciated by all. It was also good to see some of our boys in their natural habitat on farms or in rural communities. I have now visited just over 150 WA towns and this weekend I will happily visit Katanning.

During the week I also accompanied our Year 10 students on a visit to the WA Holocaust Institute where our boys were able to hear from survivor families of the holocaust. It was a moving and timely reminder of tolerance, acceptance and respect for differences and the effort required to hold on to good values in the face of enormous challenge and horror. We further strengthened our relationship with the Jewish community through the respectful way that the boys engaged.

I also found it a moment of Grace to join with the Year 9 Pilgrimage from Subiaco to the Cathedral, where our Year 9s reflected on the tremendous pioneer contribution of Dom Salvado. The experience included Mass in the Cathedral and it was a joy to celebrate that with them.

Take Care and God Bless

Fr Michael Twigg OMI

Rector of Mazenod College