From the Principal

COMMentary Number 1 of 3

Consult any dictionary and find the array of words that begin with the letters COMM.  There are so many, and the definitions are varied and most interesting to read.  In this final 3-part series in the Principal’s Bulletin for 2025, it is just that search that will make up this and the following two editions – COMM.

This edition I present the word ‘communication’.  The definition is, ‘act of imparting (esp. news); information given;....'  Let us stay with that particular meaning.  The art of communication is absolutely essential as we live our daily life.  How important it is to communicate information about any topic to special people or groups, and to a wider audience.  To remain secretive or silent can be a real detriment.

At SMC much attention and time is put aside to enhance our students’ communication skills and confidence.  It is not only the English classroom where this is developed but right across the board through different ways and using unique and tried and true strategies. Maybe it is through public speaking or debating or a talk to the class.  At times we might use information technology to communicate an idea, or art, a song, a painting or even through drama. 

Monicans are renowned for their communication skills.  Attendance at an assembly demonstrates that point clearly.  It is not only our articulate College Leaders who address over two thousand, two hundred and forty people each assembly, many other Monicans do also – through prayer, reporting, sharing a success or encouraging involvement. 

It is also to one’s social advantage to communicate clearly and precisely. Examples vary but range from a call to triple zero for an emergency, thanking a guest speaker, engaging a group of listeners in a story; accepting an award, giving a wedding speech, expressing a political point of view, and sharing the Good News of the Gospel.  How beautiful it is to hear a Year 12 student undertake that particularly wonderful task as they meet their Year 7 buddy.

Jesus was the great communicator, and he used a broad range of communication methods.  They included telling parables, preaching to thousands (and then feeding them with ten fish), on the cross moments before His death, even writing in the sand using a twig from a tree.  Ironically, I also believe that he communicated most clearly in silence through a loving smile, a piercing glance, a nod of his head, a touch and a tear.

As we conclude Part One of the COMM exploration, let us hope and pray that many Monicans from now until the final day of this school year will communicate with honesty, with clarity, and use words of comfort and encouragement others often hope to hear.

Brian E. Hanley OAM

Principal