From the Principal

• Reflection
• Year 9 Rite of Passage Camps
• 2025 College Student Leadership Investiture
• HSC Examinations continue
• P&F AGM
• Staffing News
• Term 4 Cocurricular program commences
• EREA 17th Birthday celebrations
• Key Dates

Reflection

Prayer for Peace in the Middle East

God of mercy and compassion,

of grace and reconciliation,

pour your power upon all your children in the Middle East:

Jews, Muslims and Christians,

Palestinians and Israelis.

Let hatred be turned into love, fear to trust, despair to hope,

oppression to freedom, occupation to liberation,

that violent encounters may be replaced by loving embraces,

and peace and justice could be experienced by all.

- Reverend Said Ailabouni

This time last year, I shared the above prayer with the community.  Twelve months later, this prayer is more relevant than ever with the war in the Middle East continuing and spreading to neighbouring Lebanon.  May the spirit of peace fill the hearts of all in the Middle East, guiding them towards unity and cooperation. May people recognise the importance of coming together and the potential for a brighter future. Let us hope that through diplomacy and open dialogue, conflicts can be peacefully resolved, paving the way for a better future for the innocent people of the region.

Last Sunday we celebrated World Mission Sunday.  This is an annual event celebrated by the Catholic Church to promote missionary work and raise awareness of the Church’s mission to spread the Gospel and serve communities in need around the world. It was established by Pope Pius XI in 1926.

On this day, Catholics are encouraged to pray for and support missionaries who work in regions where the Church is still growing or where there are significant humanitarian needs. The day serves as a reminder of the Church's universal mission to share the message of faith, hope, and love with all people.

World Mission Day highlights the global solidarity of Catholics and the importance of outreach to communities in need, both spiritually and materially

The 14th anniversary of the canonisation of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, celebrated on October 17, 2024, marks an important milestone in honoring Australia's first saint. St Mary MacKillop, co-founder of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart, dedicated her life to providing education and support to disadvantaged communities, particularly in rural Australia. Her canonisation by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010 was a moment of great pride for Australia, as it recognized her remarkable life of faith, service, and resilience.

This anniversary serves as a time for reflection on St Mary’s enduring legacy of compassion and selflessness. Schools, churches, and communities across the country commemorate the event with special masses, prayers, and educational activities, celebrating her values of kindness, justice, and inclusion. Her story continues to inspire many, reminding us of the power of determination and faith in making a difference in the lives of others.

Prayer to St Mary MacKillop

Loving God,

We thank you for the example of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop,

who showed us how to live with faith, courage, and compassion.

Inspired by her love for the poor and her dedication to education,

may we follow her example of serving those in need.

St Mary MacKillop, you trusted in God's providence

and never lost hope in the face of difficulties.

Help us to walk with that same trust,

knowing that God is with us always.

Intercede for us now, and pray for our intentions,

that we may grow in love, humility, and perseverance.

May we, like you, seek to bring hope and light to the world,

and live out our faith with kindness and generosity.

Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us.

Blessed Edmund Rice - pray for Us

St Pius X - pray for Us

Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!

Year 9 Rite of Passage Camps

Over the next two weeks, Year 9 students will be engaged in their Year 9 Rite of Passage camp.

What is a rite of passage?

A rite of passage camp for Year 9 students holds significant importance in their personal and social development. As adolescents transition from childhood to young adulthood, such a camp provides a structured opportunity to foster growth, self-awareness, and maturity. Here are some key reasons why it is important:

Personal Growth: The camp encourages students to step out of their comfort zones and face challenges that build resilience, confidence, and independence. It helps them discover their strengths and areas for development.

Social Development: It fosters teamwork, communication, and collaboration. Through group activities and shared experiences, students build stronger relationships with their peers and develop empathy and understanding.

Identity Formation: Year 9 is a critical time for self-discovery. The camp creates a safe space for students to reflect on their values, aspirations, and sense of self, contributing to their identity formation during adolescence.

Rite of Passage: Marking a transition from one stage of life to another, the camp symbolises a journey into greater responsibility and accountability. It helps students understand the importance of making thoughtful decisions as they grow.

Connection with Nature: Often, these camps take place in natural environments, helping students disconnect from technology and experience the benefits of being in nature, which can enhance mindfulness and well-being.

Building Resilience: Through physical and mental challenges, students learn to cope with adversity, develop perseverance, and cultivate problem-solving skills.

Overall, a rite of passage camp is a valuable experience that supports Year 9 students in their journey toward adulthood, preparing them for the challenges and responsibilities that lie ahead.  Let us keep all our Year 9 students in our prayers as they journey through this important stage in their lives.

2025 College Student Leadership Investiture

The 2025 College Student Leadership Investiture next Monday is a significant and ceremonial event that formally acknowledges and celebrates the appointment of our new student leaders within the school community. The symbolises the passing of responsibility from the outgoing student leadership team to the incoming cohort, as they prepare to serve their peers and uphold the values of the College.

The College Student Leadership Investiture is a powerful moment of reflection and pride for both the leaders, the families and the broader school community. It highlights the students' dedication to making a positive impact within the school and beyond, while fostering a culture of service, collaboration, and personal growth. The newly inaugurated leaders are encouraged to inspire others, act as role models, and help build a stronger, more inclusive College environment for all.

The investiture will be livestreamed.  Please use the following link to view.

HSC Examinations continue into Week 2

Please continue keep all our Year 12 students in your prayers as they their HSC Examinations continue into the second week.  The students have been very positive about the examination so far so please let us continue with our prayers and best wishes.

P&F AGM

A reminder of the P&F Association Annual General Meeting on Monday 11 November, commencing at 7:00 pm.  This is a great opportunity to be part of a fantastic group of parents who look to foster a positive sense of community, engagement, and support for the school, its students, and its families.  Please join us at the AGM.

Staffing News 

Mr Lloyd Zuo who is replacing Ms Leanne Lee in the Language Department has accepted a position at a Wentworth Point High School.  I would like to thank Mr Zuo for his contribution to the Language Department and wish him all the success in his new position.  Mr Zuo's last day with the College will be Friday 8 November.

Term 4 Cocurricular Program commences

The Year 7 Football team participated in the inaugural EREA Rice Cup at Valentines Sports Park on Tuesday 22 October.  The players should be exceptionally proud of their achievement. Special thanks to Mr Powell and Mr Lacey for guiding the players throughout the tournament. 

As the cocurricular summer seasons commence this week I remind all students of the importance of wearing the correct sports uniform to and from their games. 

Students must also be in the appropriate College team uniform when playing. This requirement also extends to those students attending games as supporters—they should also be dressed in College attire.

I kindly ask parents and guardians to ensure their sons are properly dressed when travelling to and from both home and away games. We greatly appreciate the commitment of the majority of students who consistently represent the College with pride by wearing the correct attire each week. Thank you for your cooperation.

EREA 17th Birthday

During the holiday break, EREA (Edmund Rice Education Australia), celebrated its 17th birthday.  This provided an opportunity to reflect on their continued comitment to Catholic education across Australia, and the celebration of the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice in our schools.

Below I attach the birthday message from the EREA Council.

Key Dates

Fide et Labore

By Faith and hard work

Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever

Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal