Faith and Community

As we begin this new term, we are once again reminded of the rhythm of our Church year Ordinary Time. While the word ordinary may sound uninspiring, in the liturgical life of the Church, it is anything but. It is in this season that we return to the steady pulse of daily life and the ongoing journey of discipleship. It is in the 'ordinary' that God does extraordinary things.

This term we continue to live out our theme for the year: 'Hospitality' - Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds. Hospitality is more than a warm welcome; it is a deeply spiritual act of inclusion and compassion. It requires courage, kindness and a strength rooted in love. As St Paul reminds us, “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality” (Romans 12:13).

To truly open our doors, our hearts, minds and spaces to others, we must be prepared to welcome not only our friends but also those who are different, who are seeking, or who stand on the margins. This is the radical hospitality Jesus models again and again. He doesn’t just tolerate others He embraces them, eats with them, heals them and listens to them.

In the Gospels we hear Jesus say, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matthew 25:35). These words are not just a call to social action they are a call to transformation. When we open our doors to others, we are strengthened as a community. We become a people of kindliness bound not only by shared beliefs but by shared belonging.

This week we celebrated young people across our diocese as we gathered to confer the Bishop Joe Grech Scholarship Awardees. We were especially proud of Poppy Ferguson, who spoke beautifully about the legacy of leadership she draws on from the Brigidine Sisters, the lived examples in her own life, and her deep desire to use this scholarship to create opportunities for connection and collaboration with other young leaders. Her words reminded us that when we open doors for others, we ignite the possibility of a future shaped by hope, faith, and courage.

To read more about Poppy and the other awardees please click here. 

As we begin this term, may our school continue to be a place where hospitality is not just something we do, but part of who we are.

Lee Pethybridge

College Leader - Faith and Community