From the Leader of Faith and Mission

Thanksgiving Mass

Last week, our College community gathered at St Padre Pio Church for our annual Thanksgiving Mass —a joyful and meaningful celebration marking the end of our school year. Together, we paused to reflect on the many blessings of 2025 including the dedication of our teachers and support staff, the growth and resilience shown by our students, and the unwavering support of our families.

We were grateful to have Fr Sheldon Burke preside over the Mass and offer words of encouragement and faith. In his homily, Fr Sheldon reminded us of the importance of placing our trust in God, especially as we move through moments of uncertainty and transition.

We extend our appreciation to all staff and students who took part in the liturgy. Their thoughtful reading, beautiful singing, and instrumental leadership fostered a deeply prayerful atmosphere that truly reflected the spirit of gratitude at the heart of this celebration.

As we enter the Christmas season and prepare for the year ahead, we are invited to look forward with renewed hope and a deep trust in God’s guiding presence. May this spirit of thanksgiving remain with our students and their families throughout the holidays, and may the peace and joy of Christmas fill your homes.

Mrs Jeanette Cocks

Leader of Faith and Mission

Australian Catholic Youth Festival 2025 – Pilgrims of Hope

From Sunday to Wednesday, five of our students and two staff members travelled to Melbourne to participate in the Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF). This national gathering brings together thousands of young people from Catholic schools and communities across Australia for four days of faith, formation, music, prayer, and celebration.

This year’s festival embraced the theme "Pilgrims of Hope," inviting young people to encounter Christ in new and transformative ways and to return home strengthened in their mission to live the Gospel with courage, joy, and compassion.

Throughout their time at ACYF, our students engaged in a rich variety of experiences including pilgrimage walks, keynote sessions from inspiring Catholic leaders, workshops, praise and worship, opportunities for Reconciliation and Adoration, and the celebration Mass with 6000 pilgrims from across the country. They also formed new friendships, deepened their understanding of their faith, and reflected on how they can be signs of hope within our school and wider community.

A highlight of the pilgrimage was witnessing the energy and enthusiasm of thousands of young Catholics gathered together, singing, praying, learning, and celebrating their faith with one heart and one purpose. Our students embraced every moment, representing our College with maturity, openness, and a genuine desire to grow spiritually.

As the Year of Jubilee draws to a close, our students return inspired to continue living as Pilgrims of Hope, committed to service, compassion, and sharing God’s love in their everyday lives. They bring back not only wonderful memories, but also a renewed spirit and a deeper sense of purpose. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this pilgrimage will continue to have in our College community.

Mrs Di Larsen

Faith in Action Coordinator