Living with Strength and Kindliness

This past week we gathered to honour and bid farewell to our graduating students and the spirit of celebration and gratitude filled the College community. This year’s graduation events were a blend of reflection and joy as families, friends, teachers, and students came together to commemorate a significant milestone in our graduates' journey.  

The Feast of All Saints, celebrated on November 1, is a celebration that reminds us of the countless saints, both well-known and those who have quietly led lives of faith and virtue. From beloved saints like St. Peter, St. Francis and St. Mary of the Cross, to newer saints such as Pope St. John Paul II and St. Josephine Bakhita, we celebrate the lives that have lit the path to Christ. This day also includes the lesser-known saint, the everyday saints in our lives, perhaps grandparents, mentors, or close friends—who have inspired us to follow Jesus.

This feast aligns closely with our connection to St. Brigid and our house patrons, who embody unique qualities of faith, courage, and compassion. St. Brigid, known for her unwavering dedication to justice, kindness, and care for the poor, inspires us to live boldly in our callings, just as she did in her life of service. Each House patron, with their own story of faith and resilience, represents the spirit of sainthood in unique ways, guiding us in how we might contribute to the world with integrity and hope. 

As we reflect on this feast, let us remember the lessons our saints and House patrons have left us, urging us to embody their values in our everyday lives. Through their examples, we find strength to live faithfully, sharing hope and compassion with all we encounter.

This term our Year 7 students have been connecting with St Mary’s Parish by attending the Wednesday Parish Mass. This has been a special time of prayer and community as our students share the prayers of the faithful with the wider parish community. We thank Father Novie and the parishioners for the opportunity to celebrate the Eucharist with them. 

Lee Pethybridge

College Leader - Faith and Community