From the Principal

• Reflection
• Perserverance
• Congratulations to Mr Cunneen
• Advance Notifications: Uniform and Mother's Day Mass and Morning Tea
• Key Dates
• Cocurricular

Reflection

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY

Trusting in God’s Mercy

Most merciful Jesus,

I turn to You in my need. 

You are worthy of my complete trust.

You are faithful in all things.

When my life is filled with confusion, give me clarity and faith.

When I am tempted to despair, fill my soul with hope.

Most merciful Jesus, I trust You in all things.

I trust in Your perfect plan for my life.

I trust You when I cannot comprehend Your divine Will.

I trust You when all feels lost.

Jesus, I trust You more than I trust myself.

You are all-knowing.

Nothing is beyond Your sight.

You are all-loving.

Nothing in my life is beyond Your concern.

You are all-powerful.

Nothing is beyond Your grace.

Most merciful Jesus,

I trust in You,

I trust in You,

I trust in You.

May I trust You always and in all things.

May I daily surrender to Your Divine Mercy.

Most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy,

Pray for us as we turn to you in our need

On the Second Sunday of Easter, the church celebrates Divine Mercy Sunday.  This special feast was introduced by Saint John Paul II. 

The Divine Mercy image is a depiction of Jesus based on a vision that St Faustina had in 1931. The depiction contains the phrase: ‘Jesus I trust in You’.  From his chest flows forth two rays: one red and white.  Red for the blood of Jesus which is the life of souls and pale for the water which justify souls.  The call this image ‘The Fountain of Mercy’.

As Easter continues for an additional 50 days after Easter Sunday, leading to Pentecost Sunday, we are constantly reminded of the role we play as witnesses and as part of the Christian community to the teachings and resurrection of Jesus.  In turn, through our experiences as witnesses in this Christian community, our faith is strengthened.  It was only when Thomas was with the other disciples that we meet the risen Christ and come to believe.  Like Thomas, it is when we are with our faith community of St Pius X that we too have the opportunity to meet Jesus and share in his teachings to strengthen our own faith. This leads us to a simple truth that faith builds community and community builds faith. 

Let’s continue to work together to be a community of faith so that we can strengthen our own faith.

'Happy are those who have not seen and yet believe’

Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us

St Pius X - Pray for Us

Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!

Perseverance

During the last College assembly of Term 1, I introduced the theme of 'perseverance' to our community. I began by offering a clear definition of the term, emphasising that perseverance entails the unwavering effort to pursue goals despite encountering difficulties, setbacks, or opposition. I urged students to reflect on their own perseverance throughout the term, highlighting how I myself persevered in pushing them to raise the bar, elevate standards, and increase their personal expectations.

I hold a strong belief in the capabilities of St Pius X students, knowing that with dedication, they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. This conviction was underscored by a poignant quote from the TV series 'Ted Lasso' where the coach, Ted, likened the atmosphere of a locker room to the scent of potential. I emphasised that our students possess immense potential, which is why I am committed to upholding certain expectations, such as ensuring shirts are tucked in, haircuts are neat, socks are pulled up, and the yard remains free of litter. Additionally, I stressed the importance of fostering mutual respect among students and staff, maintaining inclusivity and welcoming all students regardless of their backgrounds, and ensuring tasks such as diary completion are executed correctly.

The assembly was expertly led by our College Captain, Quinton Crispe, and Vice-Captain, Liam Boswell, who shared a poignant quote that spurred meaningful dialogue. Together, we reiterated the importance of perseverance by posing the question, 'Never back down, never what?' to which the students responded, 'Give up!' This exchange served as a reminder that despite challenges, we must never give up.

Whether this term has brought exceptional positivity or presented challenges, I encourage everyone to persevere and contribute positively to our community, thus continuing to add value to our collective journey at St Pius X College.

Congratulations Mr Cunneen 

It is with real honour and privilege that I congratulate Mr Tony Cunneen, SPX 1971, current teacher and Head of Publications at the College who was invited to write a chapter for a publication by the New South Wales Supreme Court titled Constant Guardian, Changing Times: the Supreme Court of New South Wales 1824-2024. This year marks the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the Supreme Court of New South Wales and the book is a historical account of the court and its judges and is one of many events to commemorate this significant milestone. Mr Cunneen’s chapter covers his specialised research topic: the relationship between the court and the British Empire and its wars. In addition, Mr Cunneen contributed text and photos for the Supreme Court History Wall – a display of material from the court’s inception to recent times. The book was launched in Banco Court by former Chief Justice James Spigelman AC KC on Wednesday 3 April 2024. On the same evening, Governor of New South Wales Margaret Beazley AC KC ceremonially opened the historical display. Further details are at a dedicated website: https://constantguardian.info/ 

The College's pride in Mr Cunneen's accomplishments is certainly well-deserved, as his contributions reflect not only his expertise and dedication but also the enduring legacy of St Pius X College in fostering intellectual curiosity and academic excellence. Congratulations to Mr Cunneen on this outstanding honour, and may his work continue to inspire and enlighten others in the years to come.

Advance Notifications: 

Winter Uniform ready for the first day of Term 2 (Tuesday 30 April).

Save the Date: Mother’s Day Mass on Wednesday 8 May

We will be celebrating Mother’s Day Mass on Wednesday 8 May at Oxford Falls.  It is very important that you RSVP so that we can arrange the catering for the Biggest Morning Tea. Thank you and I look forward to celebrating this great occasion with the many mothers, grandmothers or other significant females who play such an important role in the lives of our sons.

Key Dates

Cocurricular

After heavy rain and the cancellation of much of last weekend's sport, the U15, U16, 2nd and 1st Rugby played St Aloysius on a perfectly dry pitch.  All players were exceptional in their commitment to the team and displayed outstanding sportsmanship and true College spirit.  Congratulations to all four teams who had convincing victories.

I want to extend my best wishes to our U12 Rugby team as they participate in the Armidale School Rugby tournament this weekend. Today, I emphasised to the players that while the outcome is important, what truly matters is playing with the spirit of the game and representing the College with pride. We will be immensely proud of their efforts regardless of the results. I would also like to express my gratitude to our teachers, Mrs Greenwood, Mr Morris, Mr Bourke, and Mr Montgomerie, for their unwavering support of our students. Without their dedication, our students wouldn't have this incredible opportunity to represent the College.

Congratulations go to the following students for their wonderful achievements through the week:

Nick Gladen (Year 12) - GOLD in the 50m backstroke at the Australian Age Swimming Championships

Oliver Mackinlay (Year 5) - selected for the CIS AFL Team

Ryan Volpato and Ethan Suleman (Year 6) - selected for the CIS Football Team

Matthew Krizan (Year 6) - selected for the CIS Cross Country Championship

Go the Blue and Gold this week.

As the term comes to a close, I extend my gratitude to everyone and encourage all students to take this opportunity for reflection, rejuvenation, and a positive response, ensuring a strong start to Term 2.

Fide et Labore

By Faith and hard work

Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever

Mr Michael Ronchetti - Principal