A Prayer for the Feast of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop – 8 August

Loving God,

We thank you for the life and witness

of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop,

a woman of courage, faith and compassion.

Inspired by her words,

“Never see a need without doing something about it,”

give us eyes to notice those around us

and hearts willing to respond.

Help us to recognise those who are lonely,

to encourage those who are struggling,

and to stand beside those who need support.

Give us courage to turn compassion into action,

faith into service,

and kindness into hope.

Like Mary MacKillop,

may we trust you when the journey is difficult

and remain faithful when challenges arise.

Within our St Mary’s College community,

may we never underestimate the difference

one small act of love can make.

May we be Guided by Faith, Driven by Purpose,

ready to notice, ready to care,

and ready to act.

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us.

Amen

Sacrament of Confirmation – Filled with the Holy Spirit

On Friday 31 July, St Mary’s College joined with families, friends and the Parish community to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation of 27 candidates. It was a wonderful evening of faith and celebration as our candidates completed the journey of Christian initiation begun at their Baptism and were sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.

Celebrated by Fr Eugene Ashkar, the Mass centred on the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. In the First Reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we heard the story of Pentecost, when the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit. In the Gospel, Jesus appeared to his disciples, offered them peace, breathed upon them and said,

“Receive the Holy Spirit.” These readings reminded our candidates that Confirmation is not simply a milestone to celebrate, but a call to continue living their faith and to

“Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus.”

During the Rite of Confirmation, the candidates renewed the promises first made for them at Baptism before receiving the laying on of hands and being anointed with the Sacred Chrism. As each candidate was anointed, they heard the powerful words,

“Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”

We prayed that the seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit - Wisdom, Understanding, Right Judgement, Courage, Knowledge, Reverence, and Wonder and Awe - would guide and strengthen them throughout their lives.

The celebration also reminded our young people that receiving the Holy Spirit sends them out with a purpose. Just as the disciples were transformed at Pentecost, our newly confirmed students are called to use their gifts, make courageous choices,

serve others and share the Good News through the way they live each day. The final words of the Mass captured this beautifully: “Filled with the Holy Spirit, go out and tell the Good News.”

We were also extremely grateful to Mrs Nicolle Cheriton and the College choir for helping make our celebration a joyful occasion with their amazing singing, which enhanced the Mass beautifully.

We congratulate our 2026 Confirmation candidates and thank their families and sponsors for accompanying them on their faith journey. We also extend our sincere thanks to Fr Ashkar, College staff Mrs Jennine Brock, Mrs Grace McMahon, Mrs Cath Evans and everyone who contributed to making the celebration such a meaningful occasion.

May the Holy Spirit continue to guide our newly confirmed young people, strengthen their faith and inspire them to use their gifts in the service of others. As they continue their journey at St Mary’s College, may they truly be Guided by Faith and Driven by Purpose.

Congratulations to the 2026 Confirmation Candidates

Sky A

Archie B

Alba B

Violet B

Rafferty C

Ruby-Lee C

Ella D

Atassha D

Alexis D

Atticus D

Willow D

James H

Harrison H

Brock I

Oliver L

Shaun P

Alexis P

Isaiah P

Imogen R

Rocco S

Eevo S

Lachlan S

Abby W

Blake W

Liturgical Calendar

Ordinary Time

We now return to Ordinary Time in the Church’s liturgical year.

While the name may sound like this is a “less important” season, Ordinary Time is anything but ordinary. It is a time for growth, a time when we are invited to live out the message of Jesus in the everyday moments of our lives.

After the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, we are sent forth as the disciples were: to be people of faith, hope, and love in our community. In the rhythm of school life, this means showing kindness in the playground, patience in the classroom, and compassion in our relationships.

Ordinary Time reminds us that holiness is found not only in special celebrations, but in daily life - in the small choices we make, the way we treat one another, and the care we show to those around us. As we continue through the term, may we be open to the Spirit at work within us, and strive to live out our faith in simple, meaningful ways each day.

St Mary’s College Sacramental Program 2026

If you are interested in your child completing their Sacrament of Eucharist, please see the schedule for 2026.

Families will receive notifications via PAM as the events come closer.

Any questions please email Mrs. Loretta Shannon at the College: loretta.shannon@smseymour.catholic.edu.au

Blessings!

Mrs Loretta Shannon

Director Faith and Mission

loretta.shannon@smseymour.catholic.edu.au

The Marian

Guided by faith * Driven by purpose

Newsletter No. 11 - 7th August · 07 Aug 2026

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