Faith and Mission

Founders’ Time at John XXIII College offers our community the opportunity to reflect on the lives of those who have shaped the values and direction of our College. This year, we placed particular emphasis on the contribution of Mother Gonzaga Barry, recognising the 150th anniversary of her arrival in Australia and the beginnings of Loreto education in this country.

To help our Primary students engage with this story, a special activity, the 'Loreto Express' was developed. Students travelled by train around the College grounds, stopping at different locations that highlighted key moments in Mother Gonzaga Barry’s life: her journey from Ireland, the challenges of establishing schools in a new country, and her vision for Catholic education. This creative and interactive experience helped students gain a deeper understanding of her legacy and how it continues to shape our learning environment today.

In addition, a staff professional learning session was held to deepen understanding of Mother Gonzaga Barry’s life and the historical and spiritual context in which she led. Staff reflected on the educational vision she promoted and the continuing relevance of her work in contemporary Catholic education.

The week concluded with our celebration of John XXIII Day, which brought the College together for a community Mass and festivities. As part of the liturgy, we acknowledged the enduring influence of our three key founders: Mary Ward, founder of the Loreto Sisters; 

St Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits; and Pope John XXIII, after whom our College is named.

Each founder contributed to the values that continue to guide our mission, which has a focus on faith, education, justice, and service.

We were pleased to welcome Fr Frank Brennan SJ during Founders’ Time, who addressed both staff and students. His reflection encouraged us to consider how the vision and values of our founders remain relevant in today’s world and challenged us to live out our mission and College motto of Seek Justice with integrity and purpose.

Funds raised during the week were directed to Jesuit Mission and Mary Ward International, supporting education and development initiatives in vulnerable communities, a practical expression of our commitment to being people for others.

Founders’ Time continues to play an important role in the life of John XXIII College, offering a space to honour our heritage and renew our shared commitment to the values on which the College was built.

Janeen Murphy

Deputy Principal Faith and Mission

Community Mass

Next Friday, the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary, Community Mass will be prepared by students in Ward House. Ward families are especially welcome! 

The table below shows the schedule for Masses over the coming weeks. 

If you would like to volunteer or have any questions about Community Mass, please contact Mary-Anne Lumley.

Community Mass details

• College Chapel
• Fridays in term time
• Starts at 8:00am concludes at 8:30am.

Sacraments

Confirmation

Enrolments for the sacrament of Confirmation in the parish of Cottesloe close on Monday, 25 August. Here is the link for registration.

Further information provided by some local parishes is here.  

To find contact details for any parish in the Perth Archdiocese, go to this link.

Parents often have questions about the Sacrament program, so don’t be afraid to ask. 

The parish priest or sacrament coordinator is the best point of contact for sacraments in a specific parish. For any general enquiries about the sacrament program, contact  Mary-Anne Lumley mary-anne.lumley@johnxxiii.edu.au  or via phone on 08 9383 0513