Mission and Identity

Year 12 Graduation Mass: Let Your Light Shine

The Loreto Marryatville community gathered to celebrate the Year 12 Graduation Mass, marking a significant milestone in the lives of our graduating students as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their journeys. The Mass, celebrated by Bishop Greg O’Kelly SJ, offered an opportunity to give thanks for the years of learning, friendship and growth experienced by the graduating class. At the heart of the celebration was the Gospel reading from Matthew, “Let your light shine”, a reminder to the graduates to share their gifts, live with purpose and make a positive difference in the world.

During the Mass, Bishop O’Kelly offered a special blessing for the girls as they prepared to leave the familiar surroundings of Loreto and step confidently into the future. The blessing recognised the hopes and opportunities that lie ahead, encouraging the graduates to carry the values of a Loreto education into their lives beyond the College.

Another meaningful moment was the presentation of the graduation rings. More than a symbol of this important milestone, each ring serves as a lasting reminder of the girls’ connection to the Loreto community and the friendships, experiences and shared values that have shaped their time at the College. As they move forward, the rings will remind them that they remain part of the wider Loreto family.

As they begin their next chapter, we wish each graduate every blessing and encourage them to let their light shine through lives guided by Freedom, Justice, Sincerity, Verity and Felicity.

Connecting with Mary Ward’s Mission in Kolkata 

We were delighted to welcome Nabanita Shome, Associate Director of the Mary Ward Social Centre in Kolkata, India, who visited to share insights into the Centre’s work and the projects supporting women, children and families in local communities.

Through this engaging visit, students had the opportunity to learn more about the challenges faced by these communities, as well as the practical ways the Centre works to create opportunities, strengthen communities and improve lives. Hearing about these initiatives brought Mary Ward’s mission of seeking truth and doing justice to life, reminding us of the importance of standing alongside those experiencing disadvantage and working towards a more just and compassionate world. The visit also highlighted the powerful connection between our Loreto community and Mary Ward communities around the world. 

Through our support of Mary Ward International, we are reminded that even seemingly small actions can contribute to meaningful and lasting change. We thank Nabanita for sharing their experiences and helping us deepen our understanding of how we can live out the values of justice, sincerity and freedom in our own lives and communities.

Martina O’Connell

Assistant Principal: Mission and Identity 

Student Advisory Body – Justice Starts with You! 

The Justice Starts with You Day was a fun, educational, and inspiring experience where we learnt how we can make a difference in our communities. The day was divided into three sections: SEE, JUDGE and ACT. During SEE, we identified problems and injustices in our communities. In JUDGE, we reflected on these issues and considered why they matter. Finally, in ACT, we explored ways to take action and make a positive difference.

 

During a workshop with Project Rockit, we learnt that we don't have to fix every problem in the world to make a difference, because even small actions can create positive change in our communities. We also connected with students from many other schools across South Australia, with support from CESA. Alongside our learning, we enjoyed delicious pizza and had fun dancing to Just Dance. Overall, the day helped us understand that justice begins with small actions and that everyone has the power to create change.

Gabriella C

Year 8 student