Assistant Principal —

Religious Identity & Mission

Southern Area Diocesan Catholic Mission Mass 

Four Senior Campus students recently represented St Virgil’s College at the Catholic Mission Mass celebrated by Archbishop Tony Ireland at Corpus Christi Church, Bellerive on Wednesday 28 October. As part of the liturgy, our students participated in the Ministry of the Word, confidently proclaiming the First Reading and Prayers of the Faithful for the congregation. 

In his homily, Archbishop Tony encouraged the young people gathered to remember that the Apostles were first called before they were sent. He spoke about the importance of listening attentively to God and to the needs of those around us. He reminded students that living out our faith often happens through simple acts of service: including those who may feel left out, showing kindness, and responding to the needs of our local and global communities. 

During the Mass, Patrick Hall from Catholic Mission presented the College with a mission candle, which will be displayed at St Virgil’s as a reminder of our connection to the wider Catholic community and its mission throughout the world. 

This year, Catholic Mission is focusing on supporting communities in Malawi. Through the 2026 appeal, attention is being given to projects that help improve access to education, healthcare and community development opportunities. 

Catholic Mission is the Pope’s international mission agency, connecting Catholic communities around the world and supporting the Church’s work in some of the most vulnerable communities. The Mass provided a meaningful opportunity for our students to reflect on their own call to serve others and to be people of faith, compassion and action. 

Edmund Rice Education Australia Inaugural First Nations Conference 

Recently, Mrs Sherry Coy and I attended the EREA First Nations Education Conference in Brisbane. The conference provided a valuable opportunity to learn alongside educators from EREA schools across Australia and to reflect on how we can continue to strengthen outcomes for First Nations students at St Virgil’s College. 

A key theme was the importance of relationships, belonging and holistic support for students. Presenters highlighted that student success is built not only through academic achievement, but also through strong connections to culture, community, wellbeing and identity. 

The conference also challenged schools to consider how First Nations wisdom can be woven authentically into all aspects of school life. As an EREA school, we reflected on the significance of our Charter, which recognises Scripture, First Nations wisdom and Church teaching as important sources of wisdom that help shape our learning communities. 

Another area of learning focused on culturally responsive teaching practices that benefit all students. We explored ways schools can continue to create inclusive learning environments where every student feels known, valued and supported to achieve their best. 

Mrs Coy and I returned with many ideas and renewed enthusiasm for continuing to build strong partnerships with First Nations students, families and communities, while ensuring that our College remains a place where every young person can flourish.