From the Dean of Mission

Jubilee Year (24/12/24 - 6/1/2026)

A Jubilee Year normally occurs in the church every 25 years, the last being 2000. 

Pope Francis is encouraging people to transform their hearts. The Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica which is normally sealed is now open for pilgrims.

This year of Jubilee is an opportunity for all of us to reflect upon how we can not only transform our own

hearts and be people of hope and kindness but to work towards bringing about the kingdom of God, a place where peace and justice reign.

Hope is a recurring theme in the pontificate of Pope Francis. In his letter for the promotion of the Jubilee Year the Holy Father stated:

“We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us, and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart and far-sighted vision. The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so urgently desire; that is why I have chosen as the motto of the Jubilee, Pilgrims of Hope. This will indeed be the case if we are capable of recovering a sense of universal fraternity and refuse to turn a blind eye to the tragedy of rampant poverty that prevents millions of men, women, young people and children from living in a manner worthy of our human dignity. Here I think in particular of the many refugees forced to abandon their native lands. May the voices of the poor be heard throughout this time of preparation for the Jubilee, which is meant to restore access to the fruits of the earth to everyone.”

Year 7 Lasallian Reflection Day 

On Friday, 7 February, our Year 7 students took part in a meaningful Reflection Day centered around the theme of "Building Community." This special day explored the various forms of community in their lives, with a particular focus on welcoming them to their new Lasallian community—one that extends far beyond the walls of our College. Ex-students and current senior leaders shared inspiring messages, encouraging the Year 7s to embrace the many opportunities at the College, especially in the areas of "Faith, Service & Community." They highlighted that the high school experience becomes more enriched, memorable, and enjoyable when students engage fully in all aspects of school life.

Ms Gamsaragan

Youth Ministry Coordinator

Introducing Brendon and Rhiannon

Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are supported by Brendon Coan (ATSI Community and Student Liaison Officer from Sydney Catholic Schools) and this year, Rhiannon Byers from Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation. They are in the College every Friday and offer mentoring support and cultural knowledge. Please contact the College if you have not indicated Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait family links and you would like your son/daughter included in these programs.

Brendon Coan has been part of our College community for 3 years and has shared information about himself:

"My name is Brendon Coan and I am an Arrernte (Alice Springs) and Yuin (NSW South Coast) man and approaching 4 years working at Sydney Catholic Schools, in which I work in both primary and secondary schools all over our diocese. I hold a diploma in counselling, and I am currently studying to become a fully qualified counsellor. I also hold two electrical trades and have previously worked in Aboriginal and disability employment. I have 10 years of experience working as a mentor supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

I am working in the St Aloysius community each Friday, mentoring  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. This also includes providing cultural advice, cultural initiatives, career opportunities and wellbeing check-ins to ensure our students are supported and have access to opportunities and events both within and outside our College. " 

Brendon has worked to secure connections with Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation, and this year Rhiannon Byers will be working with Brendon and our students on Fridays. Rhiannon has shared information about herself: 

"My name is Rhiannon Byers. I am a proud Wiradjuri woman who grew up on Kamilaroi land. I play for Cronulla Sharks in the NRLW. I am working at Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation doing Youth mentoring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who are looking to learn more about themselves and gain cultural practice through our program. Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation is located in Jannali and is for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and families. KAC have services in Age Care, help with employment, housing support, mental health and drugs and alcohol support.

We have a Men's group (16yrs +), a Women’s group (16yrs +) and Kids group (4yrs to 18yrs). Kurranulla is really excited to meet the next generation and mentor young people through school giving them a cultural safe space to meet, catch up on school work and learning more about themselves."