Rector's Report
Greetings to you all!
In Luke’s Gospel this week we hear: “Then he led them out of the city over to Bethany. Raising his hands he blessed them, and while blessing them, took his leave, being carried up to heaven. And they were on their knees, worshipping him. They spent all their time in the Temple praising God.” (Luke 24: 50 - 53)
This Sunday we celebrate the Feast of the Ascension, the moment that the Risen Jesus was raised up to be with his Father in heaven on the 40th day after his Resurrection (Easter being the first day). However, we can also celebrate all the moments after that because Jesus did not leave us alone. In his ascension, Jesus has guaranteed us our inheritance because we are the fully beloved and accepted children of God, now and forever. On the feast of Pentecost (Sunday week), Jesus will send the Third Person of the Holy Trinity, the Holy Spirit, to Mary and the Apostles. Through the Holy Spirit, we have the fullness of Jesus’ presence with us always! Every day, we should live in confidence and hope, knowing that our God is always with us to strengthen and comfort us. Now that’s something to celebrate!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we rejoice today in your ascension to the Father’s right hand. Thank you, Lord, for offering us a share in your heavenly life. By your Spirit, help us to lay hold of our inheritance in you—the hope, the glory, and the power that are the right of every child of God.
Mazenod Panthers All–Abilities
Wednesday afternoon, May 21, Mazenod College hosted the annual footy match against the Mazenod Panthers All-Abilities football club. The Mazenod Panthers team caters for all people with an intellectual disability regardless of ability, The purpose of the All-Abilities teams is to enable access for people with disability to the game of Australian Rules football.
The inclusive spirit of Mazenod student was very tangible with our students volunteering to participate in this match which is a highlight on our college calendar. Players on both sides displayed their skills with the Panthers clinching a three-point victory.
A vote of thanks to present and past students of Mazenod who are valued volunteers with the Panthers Club and the Mazenod students and staff who also volunteered their time and talents to ensure an enjoyable time was had by all.
Some handy footy advice was given by Ms Ruby Ford to our Mazenod students playing with the Panthers.
The umpires kept a keen eye on play: Jacinta Fox, Patrick lambert, Fr Harry Dyer OMI.
Visit to Nazareth College
On Thursday May 15 I attended Nazareth College, Noble Park, to present on the history of the former site of the Oblate Seminary in Jacksons Road, Mulgrave.The Year 12 Geography students were undertaking a fieldwork project investigating land use change.
St Eugene’s Feast Day
On Friday May 23 the college community gathered in the Provence Centre to celebrate the Eucharist for the Feast of St Eugene de Mazenod.
The actual date of the feast is May 21, 1861, when Bishop Eugene de Mazenod entered eternal life. Fr Dominic Rozario OMI (College Chaplain) was the preacher for the for the Eucharistic celebration. To enhance the occasion our students enjoyed a half day holiday whilst our staff came together with the Oblates for important community time with a shared lunch before finishing early. Thanks to all who ensured this was a prayerful and enjoyable celebration. I pray that St Eugene will continue to bless and inspire all of us involved in our Mazenod community.
Mazenod Old Collegians Founder’s Day Celebrations
On Thursday evening May 21 after their training session, I spoke to the Mazenod Old Collegians men’s and women’s football teams on the history of St Eugene de Mazenod and his connection with the club. I was made very welcomed as I shared a brief history of St Eugene’s vision and mission and how that can still be applicable to the football club’s mission and vision today.
On Saturday May 24, the Mazenod Old Collegians Football Club celebrated with the annual Founder’s Day lunch and football match. I was pleased to be the guest speaker at the lunch connecting the footy club to the rich history of the Oblates that commenced with St Eugene in 1861. In attendance from the college were Fr Dominic Rozario OMI, Dr Paul Shannon (Principal), and Tina Giacco. Federal and State members of Parliament and local Council representatives also joined in the celebrations.
Yours in Jesus Christ and Mary Immaculate
Fr Harry Dyer OMI