Director Faith and Mission

A Prayer for the end of Term 3

College Feast Day - Celebrating the Nativity of Mary

Our St Mary’s College Feast Day Mass was a beautiful celebration of faith, community and our shared identity as a Catholic College.

Gathering as a whole College community, we honoured Mary and reflected on her courage, faith and willingness to say “yes” to God. Her example connects so strongly with our 2026 College theme, Guided by Faith, Driven by Purpose, reminding us that faith gives direction to our lives and calls us to respond with courage, compassion and purpose.

This message was brought to life through the lilies created by students across the College, each representing our own invitation to say “yes” to God and to the opportunities we are given to serve, lead and care for others.

The Mass was prayerfully led by Fr Ashkar, with students taking an active role throughout the celebration through readings and prayers. Our College choir added greatly to the prayerful atmosphere, leading the community in music and song. Thank You to Nicolle Cheriton for her organisation and preparation of the Choir.

It was wonderful to see students from Foundation to Year 12 gathered together in prayer and participating so respectfully. Celebrating Eucharist together reminds us that our Feast Day is more than a school tradition. It is an opportunity to pause, give thanks for the community we belong to and reconnect with the faith and values that guide who we are and who we are called to become.

As a College named in honour of Mary, her example continues to inspire us to be people of faith, courage, compassion and service. Like Mary, may we be Guided by Faith and Driven by Purpose, saying our own “yes” to God through the way we live, learn and care for one another.

Many thanks also go to Ms Molinaro and Mrs Brock and the Year 6 & 8 students and our Student Leaders for their support in the preparation of the Mass.

Fr Ashkar Celebrates 20 Year of Ordination

This week, our St Mary’s College community had the privilege of celebrating a very special milestone Fr Askar’s 20th anniversary of priestly ordination.

For twenty years, Fr Askar has responded faithfully to God’s call, dedicating his life to serving God and others through his priestly ministry. His vocation has been lived through the celebration of the Eucharist and the Sacraments, prayer, pastoral care, teaching and his presence alongside the communities he serves.

Staff gathered for a special morning tea to congratulate Fr Askar and to recognise this significant anniversary. It was a wonderful opportunity to express our gratitude for the important role he plays in the faith life of St Mary’s College and our parish community.

In a Catholic school, the relationship between Parish and School is particularly important, and we are grateful for the many ways Fr Askar supports us in nurturing the faith of our students, staff and families. His ministry reminds us that vocation begins with listening to God and having the courage to respond.

As Fr Askar celebrates 20 years of saying “yes” to God’s call, we give thanks for his service and pray that God will continue to guide, strengthen and bless him in the years ahead.

Congratulations, Fr Askar, on 20 years of priestly ministry.

May God bless you abundantly as you continue to be Guided by Faith and Driven by Purpose.

Parish Mass

Each week, students from across St Mary’s College have the opportunity to join our wider faith community for Parish Mass at St Mary’s Church. This regular celebration of the Eucharist is an important part of the faith life of our College, allowing students to participate in prayer, listen to the Word of God and share in the traditions of our Catholic faith alongside members of our parish community. Students take an active role in the Mass through reading, responding and prayer, helping them to understand that faith is something we participate in and live each day. Our weekly Parish Mass also strengthens the important connection between school and parish, reminding us that we are part of a much wider community of faith. Through these shared celebrations, our students continue to grow in confidence and understanding as they are Guided by Faith and Driven by Purpose.

Ooshie Trading Fundraiser

There has been plenty of excitement around St Mary’s College with our Ooshie Trading Fundraiser, bringing students together for some fun while also supporting our College community. Students have enjoyed the opportunity to trade their Ooshies, search for favourites and add new characters to their collections, all while contributing to the worthwhile cause of Caritas. 

More than simply a fundraiser, the activity has encouraged students across different year levels to connect, share and participate together in a spirit of generosity and community. It has been wonderful to see the enthusiasm surrounding the trading and the way a simple collection of Ooshies can bring so much energy and enjoyment to our school day. 

Thank you to everyone who has supported the fundraiser and helped make it such an enjoyable community activity.

Well done to Sophie and Evie from Year 3/4 for coming up with this excellent fundraising idea!

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, 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 

at loretta.shannon@smseymour.catholic.edu.au

Blessings for a safe and enjoyable holiday!

Mrs Loretta Shannon

Director Faith and Mission 

loretta.shannon@smseymour.catholic.edu.au