From the Principal

  • Reflection
  • End of Term Reflection: Mindsets, Milestones and Momentum
  • Year 12 Trivia Afternoon
  • Cocurricular Program
  • Enrolments for Year 5 & 7 2027
  • NCCD
  • College Building Fund
  • Key Dates 

Reflection

Celebrating Corpus Christi: A Reflection on the Body and Blood of Christ

 

Each year, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of Corpus Christi, a solemn and joyful occasion that invites the faithful to reflect on the profound mystery of the Eucharist - the real presence of Jesus Christ in the consecrated bread and wine.

 

What Is Corpus Christi?

The name Corpus Christi is Latin for “Body of Christ.” This feast, traditionally celebrated on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday (or the following Sunday in many places), was established in the 13th century by Pope Urban IV. Inspired by a Eucharistic miracle and the devotion of St Juliana of Liège, the feast was created to honour the sacrament of the Eucharist outside of the solemnity of Holy Thursday, which is often overshadowed by the events of Holy Week.

 

Why It Matters to Us Today

For our students navigating a world of constant change, the Feast of Corpus Christi offers a moment to pause and reconnect with the spiritual nourishment that the Eucharist provides. It reminds us that Christ is not distant or abstract, rather He is present, tangible, and intimately involved in our lives.

 

In the Eucharist, Catholics believe that Christ gives Himself fully Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. This act of self-giving love is not only a source of grace but also a model for how we are called to live: in service, in community, and in love.

 

Traditions and Celebrations

Around the world, Corpus Christi is marked by vibrant processions, where the Blessed Sacrament is carried through the streets in a monstrance, often accompanied by music, flowers, and prayer. These public displays of faith are a powerful witness to the belief in Christ’s real presence and a celebration of unity in the Church.

 

Personal Reflection: Encountering Christ

As a student, I often found myself rushing from class to class, juggling assignments, social and sporting commitments, and future plans. Amid the busyness, it’s easy to overlook the quiet, sacred moments where God is present. One of those moments for me has always been during Eucharistic adoration.

 

I remember walking into a College chapel one evening, not expecting much just a few minutes of silence. But as I knelt before the Blessed Sacrament, I felt a peace I hadn’t known I needed. It wasn’t dramatic or loud. It was subtle, like a whisper reminding me: You are not alone. I am with you.

 

That moment changed how I see the Eucharist. It’s not just a ritual or a symbol - it’s a relationship. Corpus Christi reminds me that Christ is not only in the chapel but also in the people I meet, the work I do, and the love I share. It challenges me to live with greater awareness, gratitude, and compassion.

 

A Call to Live Eucharistically

As we celebrate Corpus Christi, let us be reminded that the Eucharist is not just a ritual, it is a way of life. To live “Eucharistically” means to live with thanksgiving, to recognise Christ in others, and to become bread broken for the world.

 

Regardless of who you are, this feast invites you to encounter a mystery that has transformed lives for centuries - and continues to do so today.

 

Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us

St Pius X - Pray for Us

Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!

 

End of Term Reflection: Mindsets, Milestones, and Momentum

As Term 2 draws to a close, it's a natural time for students, staff, and families to pause and reflect, not just on academic progress, but on the mindset that shaped the journey. Have you approached challenges with curiosity and resilience, or have you found yourself retreating into a fixed mindset when things got tough?

An open mindset embraces growth, feedback, and the idea that abilities can be developed through effort. A closed mindset, on the other hand, can limit potential by avoiding challenges or fearing failure. As we head into the break, it's worth asking: Which mindset have I nurtured this term? And more importantly, how can I reset and refocus for the term ahead?

 

Looking Ahead: What the Next Term Brings

Each year group stands at a unique point in their educational journey:

 

Year 12 students are entering the final, most crucial stage of their secondary education. With HSC exams on the horizon, this is a time for focused preparation, self-care, and strategic revision. Every lesson, every study session, and every moment counts.

 

Year 11 are approaching their final assessments for the Preliminary course. These assessments are not only important in their own right but also serve as the foundation for the HSC content that begins next term.

 

Year 10 students are making significant decisions as they finalise their HSC subject selections for 2026. These choices will shape their senior years and open pathways to future opportunities. It's a time for thoughtful consideration, conversations with teachers and families, and self-reflection.  Hopefully, their Semester 1 reports will assist in their deliberation.

 

Years 5 to 9 are preparing for the second half of the academic year. With Semester 1 Reports in hand, students are encouraged to reflect on their progress and set clear goals for improvement. How can they strengthen their learning attributes such as organisation, collaboration, and persistence in Semester 2?

 

A Time to Reset

The upcoming break is more than just a pause. It's a chance to reset. Whether you're preparing for final exams, choosing subjects, or simply aiming to improve your learning habits, take time to rest, reflect, and return in Term 3 with purpose.

 

Let’s carry forward the lessons of this term and step into the next with renewed energy, open minds, and a commitment to growth. Enjoy your break.

Year 12 Trivia Afternoon – A Fun and Collaborative Success

Congratulations to our Year 12 Student Leaders from St Pius X College and Mercey Catholic College for their outstanding organisation and hosting of yesterday's Trivia Afternoon for our Year 12 cohort. Their thoughtful planning and engaging delivery made for a lively and enjoyable event filled with laughter, friendly competition, and well-crafted trivia challenges.

It was wonderful to see students enthusiastically participating and working together in teams, showcasing not only their knowledge but also their sense of fun and camaraderie. A special thank you to all the staff who attended, particularly those who impressed with their trivia prowess. It was great to see everyone getting involved.

This event was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the social connection between our two schools, and we’re proud of the leadership and initiative shown by our students in making it such a memorable occasion.

Cocurricular Program

Thank You for a Fantastic Final Round Before the Holidays

As we wrap up the final round of sport before the holidays, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved. While we had mixed results, what truly stood out was the unwavering determination and effort shown by all our teams. Your commitment to representing the College with pride and resilience was inspiring.

 

Two teams deserve special mention this week:

 

First XI Football: In a thrilling display of perseverance, the team clawed their way back from a two-goal deficit to finish strong. Their grit and teamwork were a testament to their character.

 

First XV Rugby: Their performance was nothing short of outstanding. The team’s commitment and “never say die” attitude was on full display, and it was a joy to watch them give everything they had on the field.

 

A special thank you goes out to all the supporters who came to cheer on the First XV Rugby. Your energy and encouragement made a real difference.  I honestly believe it was the extra boost the team needed to keep pushing, even when the odds were against them.

 

I am extremely proud of our entire school community for the passion and dedication shown throughout the season. Your support and spirit continue to make our sporting culture something truly special.

 

Enjoy the well-earned break, and we look forward to more great moments next term!

 

Go the Blue and Gold!

Enrolments for Years 5 & 7 2027

Enrolment application forms for St Pius X College remain available.  Please see the College website for details.

NCCD

Please refer to the letter attached for information on NCCD 2025.  Should you have any queries please direct them to Mr Daniel Burton at dburton@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au

College Building Fund

Please see attached a letter from our Business Manager regarding the College Building Fund.

Key Dates

Term 3

Week 1

Mon 21/7 Staff Professional Learning Day (pupil-free day)

Tues 22/7 Students resume for Term 3 / Chapel Mass (Pius)

Wed 23/7 NAIDOC Assembly

Fri 25/7 IPSHA Debating 

Sat 26/7 ISA Football & Tennis R8 / Rugby / IPSHA R8

 

Week 2

Mon 28/7 - Fri 1/8 Year 8 Ski Trip

Tues 29/7 Chapel Mass (Mercy) / PAPA Meeting (online)

Fri 1/8 Year 10 Formation Day 

Sat 2/8 ISA Football & Tennis R9 / Rugby / IPSHA R9

 

Fide et Labore

By Faith and hard work

Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever

Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal