FAITH MATTERS

A warm welcome to Term 2. 

It has been a sombre start to the term, as Catholics around the world mourned the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died aged 88 on April 21.

Pope Francis is remembered as an “ordinary person”. From the very start, he was one of us. He walked to the local barber, travelled to Lampedusa to mourn with refugees who had lost loved ones at sea, stepped out of the popemobile to comfort a grieving woman, spoke spontaneously at press conferences, and on Holy Thursday, washed the feet of a young Muslim woman with tattoos. His language was vivid and down-to-earth—he called the Church a “field hospital” and urged priests to be true shepherds, close enough to their people to “smell like the sheep.” He also engaged deeply with the major challenges facing both the world and the Catholic Church. He wrote powerful letters urging action on climate change, advocated for an end to war, and called for compassion in welcoming refugees. Within the Church, he encouraged us to reach out to those on the margins—both of the Church and society. His Synods fostered reflection and dialogue at every level, beginning in local communities, moving through dioceses, and ultimately informing discussions in Rome—before returning those insights to the grassroots. Above all, he has been a brother to everyone he encountered, embracing their way of life, their hopes, and their struggles.

Our hope now turns to the upcoming conclave—the sacred and solemn process by which the College of Cardinals gathers to choose the next Pope. In prayer and discernment, these men will seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to elect a shepherd for the global Church, one who will lead with wisdom, compassion, and faithfulness in our complex and divided world. It is a moment not just of decision, but of deep listening—to God, to the needs of the Church, and to the cries of humanity. As the conclave approaches, we are invited to join in prayer, asking that this time be marked by unity, humility, and openness to God’s will.

In the Catholic Church, May is known as the Month of Mary, a time dedicated to honouring the Blessed Virgin Mary. This tradition involves special devotions, prayers, and celebrations throughout the month. May is a time to reflect on Mary's role as the Mother of God and the Mother of the Church, and to deepen one's faith and love for her. 

This week, the Year 7s attended their Reflection Day. The day started with a performance called “St Mary of the Cross” in the Jubilee Centre. This performance was a reenactment of the life of Mary MacKillop. This production has been visiting our school for many years, and continues to bring Mary’s story to life through drama. Some students were called on to participate in certain scenes, and all students were invited to ask questions after the performance. Students then continued the rest of the Reflection Day at the Swan Hill Soccer Club. Students participated in several activities based on the theme “I am God’s Creation” - Identity, Friendship and Communication. Many thanks to all students for their willingness to participate and behaviour throughout the day. Also, thanks to the staff who supported the students by attending the day.

Next week, both Year 8 & 9 students will have their Reflection Days facilitated by a team from Melbourne called Passionist Youth Retreat. 

Prayer for the Conclave

Loving and Eternal God, You have guided Your Church through every age with wisdom, mercy, and grace. As the College of Cardinals gathers in conclave, we turn to You in humble prayer.

Send forth Your Holy Spirit— to enlighten their minds, to stir their hearts, and to lead them in unity and truth.

May their deliberations be free from fear, guided by faith, and inspired by the example of Christ, the Good Shepherd. Raise up for us a Pope who will be a servant of Your people, a voice for the voiceless, a builder of bridges, and a sign of hope in a divided world.

May he lead with compassion, teach with courage, and walk closely with the poor, the wounded, and the forgotten.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Jesus light of the world, guide us

St Joseph, journey with us

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us

Alison Wright

Director of Faith and Mission