Mission and Identity

• St Pius X College Remembrance Day Service 2025

• Reminder: 1 Peter 4:10 St Pius X 2025 Christmas Appeal

St Pius X College Remembrance Day Service 2025

Lest We Forget

On Tuesday, 11 November, the St Pius X College community came together in solemn remembrance to honour all who have served and sacrificed in wars and conflicts across the world. The Remembrance Day Service 2025 was a moving occasion marked by reverence, reflection, and gratitude.

The ceremony began with an address of welcome from Mr Callow, who acknowledged the presence of special guests, including members of the 2/33rd Australian Infantry Battalion AIF Association and several families connected to the College community. 

Following this, Mr Callow provided a historical overview of the origins of Remembrance Day, explaining how the armistice signed on 11 November 1918 brought an end to World War I, and how this moment became an enduring symbol of remembrance for lives lost in the pursuit of peace. He reminded students that this day is not one of celebration, but of honour - a time to reflect on the fragility of life and the value of peace as the thread that binds humanity together.

The Prayers of Intercession invited the community to pray for peace in nations affected by war, for leaders to act with wisdom and compassion, and for all who have died in service to their country. The College responded to each prayer with the words, 'Make us people of peace,' reminding us to honour the call of the Gospels.

The highlight of the service came with the Commemorative Address delivered by Mr Pat Rodgers, who shared reflections on his visit to the Western Front and the enduring legacy of the soldiers who fought there. His address encouraged students to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today and to become peacemakers in their own lives.

Mrs Greenwood then led the Wreath Laying Ceremony, accompanied by the sound of bagpipes played by Mr Allan Watts. College Captain Sean and Junior student Oliver laid the wreath at the College’s sacred space in a touching tribute to all who have served.

The College then stood for The Ode, followed by the Last Post, a minute of silence, and The Rouse - a sequence that marked one of the most solemn and powerful moments of the morning. During this time, the Australian flag was raised from half-mast, symbolising both remembrance and hope.

College Captain Sean O’Donnell concluded the formal proceedings with a heartfelt address, thanking Mr Rodgers and reflecting on the importance of carrying forward the values of courage, compassion, and unity. 

As the ceremony drew to a close, Mr Callow offered words of thanks to guests, staff, and students for their participation. The 2025 Remembrance Day Service served as a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the ongoing call to live lives of peace and respect - in the spirit of those who have gone before us.

Lest We Forget.

Reminder: 1 Peter 4:10 St Pius X 2025 Christmas Appeal

'Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.' 1 PETER 4:10

As Christmas draws near, we are invited to put our faith into hard-working love. 

The 1 Peter 4:10 Christmas Appeal is how our College community shares God’s grace with others - through simple, generous acts that bring hope and dignity to those in need.

Every student is asked to bring one complete hamper or gift to support this appeal. Together, our small efforts create a big impact.

The appeal will take place Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays - Weeks 3 to 7 this term. Students are asked to bring their donations to homeroom where student volunteers will assist in bringing the collections to the collection points in the College foyer.

Below is the Year Group distribution and focus lists for the appeal this year:

Years 5 & 6 — St Vincent de Paul Woy Woy:

Supporting Vinnies Van and Central Coast families who are struggling this Christmas.

Donations Required:

• Vinnies Snack Packs: Non-perishable snack food items (chips,popper juice, tuna etc).
• Christmas treats (biscuits, chocolates, pudding, lollies)
• Toiletries (soap, deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo)
• Please ensure the above is packed in a zip-lock bag

Year 7 - St Mary’s Bowraville:

Donations Required: 

• Toys, clothing, sport equipment

• Items suitable for primary-school aged children:

  • Toys, Clothing

  • Sports Equipment

  • Books

  • Items will be wrapped by our Year 10 Bowraville Immersion Pilgrims and distributed while on immersion

Year 8 and Year 9 - Jesuit Refugee Services (Standing with refugees and people seeking asylum who are rebuilding their lives in Sydney):

Donations Required: 

• Nonperishable food items: Staple food items (rice, lentils, cooking oil, pasta, long-life milk, canned meals)

• All donations go toward the JRS Refugee Pantry

Year 10 - Personalised Present for A Centacare Employee:

• A handwritten Christmas Card

• Hampers with items personalised to the employee’s interests.

• These presents will be presented to the employees personally by Year 10 Greater Sydney Immersion Pilgrims

Year 12 - Family Hamper for St Michael’s Meals, Darlington (Providing food and toiletries to those facing food insecurity this festive season)

• Non-perishable meals (tins, soups, stews, beans, pasta, rice)

• Snack foods (biscuits, crackers, muesli bars, chips)

• Toiletries (toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, shaving cream)

• Reusable grocery or enviro-bags for packing

Mr Daniel Petrie - Assistant Principal, Mission and Identity