Faith, Mission 

& Identity

125 Years of Light: A Legacy of Faith

This year marks a truly extraordinary chapter in the story of Brigidine College Randwick. As we gather in 2026, we do so in the footsteps of the courageous women who, 125 years ago, established a foundation of faith, education and hospitality on this very soil.

Our celebration of St. Brigid’s Feast Day on Friday, 30th January, was a beautiful testament to this endurance. Seeing our community gathered to celebrate not just the start of a new year, but over a century of 'Strength and Gentleness' served as a powerful reminder that while times change, our core mission remains steadfast. As the patroness of our College, St. Brigid’s legacy of social justice will be a central pillar for us this year as we look forward to the many student-led initiatives planned to mark our 125th anniversary.

To bring our 125 year history to life, students participated in a St. Brigid’s Day Homeroom Quiz. It was wonderful to hear the spirited discussions echoing through the corridors as students tested their knowledge on everything from the life of St. Brigid to the arrival of the first Brigidine Sisters in Randwick in 1901. A special congratulations to 11 Aquinas, who demonstrated incredible speed by completing the quiz in just 19 minutes, and to 9 Winifred, who achieved our top score of 43 points! Thank you to both groups for showing such impressive knowledge of our shared heritage. This blend of fun and reflection is exactly how we hope to journey through this 125th anniversary year—honoring our past while looking joyfully toward the future.

A Warm Welcome to Year 7

A very special welcome to our Year 7 students, the newest members of our Brigidine family! To help them settle into their new home, Year 7 spent time diving into the history and charism of our College through a dynamic St. Brigid Escape Room activity.

They worked collaboratively to "unlock" the secrets of St. Brigid’s life, demonstrating great teamwork and curiosity. To conclude their induction, the girls also sat together to weave St. Brigid’s Crosses. These crosses, crafted with care, are a tangible symbol of the protection and hospitality we hope they feel as they begin their six year journey with us.

Pope’s Lenten Message: Fasting from Harsh Words

As we approach Ash Wednesday on February 18, Pope Leo XIV has shared a powerful and practical reflection for Lent. Rather than focusing solely on traditional fasting, he invites us to "disarm our language" and abstain from harsh words, rash judgment and slander.

Here are some key takeaways from the Holy Father’s message:

• A "Practical" Abstinence: We are challenged to refrain from words that offend or hurt our neighbor, making space instead for kindness and respect.
• Digital & Social Grace: The Pope specifically calls for this kindness to extend beyond our families and into our workplaces, political debates and—importantly for our students—onto social media.
• Listening as Prayer: By silencing "words of hatred", we create the necessary quiet to hear the "cry of those who are suffering" and the voice of God in our lives. The Pope reminds us that by measuring our words, we allow hatred to give way to hope and peace. 

This Lenten invitation perfectly aligns with our Brigidine call to "Gentleness", reminding us that our words have the power to heal and build up our community. In this 125th year, let us strive to ensure our language reflects the light we have carried for over a century.

Archbishop's Lenten Penance:

Monica Ribeiro

Director of Religious Education & Mission