Ash Wednesday: A Journey of Renewal and Hope

Last Wednesday, students and staff gathered to mark the beginning of Lent with our Ash Wednesday Liturgy. This sacred 40-day journey invites us to reflect on how we can grow, change, and renew our hearts in preparation for Easter.

As a Catholic community, we acknowledge our imperfections and acknowledge that we all fall short at times. Yet, Lent is not a season of despair but one of hope—a time to open ourselves to God's grace and transformation. It calls us to embrace a change of heart, turning away from self-interest, resentment, and greed and instead allowing love, justice, compassion, and forgiveness to guide our lives.

This year, as Pilgrims of Hope, we are reminded that God does not measure us by our failures but invites us to become the best version of ourselves. His love sustains us on this journey, encouraging us to seek renewal with courage and faith. Over the next 40 days, may we walk this Lenten path with open hearts, trusting in God's presence and embracing the hope that leads us closer to Him.

Celebrating Catholic Education Week 2025

From Sunday, 16 March, to Sunday, 23 March, we join Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Melbourne in celebrating Catholic Education Week—a time to reflect on our Catholic identity, our role in the local community, and the collective strength of Catholic education.

The 2025 theme, 'Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you' (Is 60:1), is inspired by the Holy Year of Jubilee and the Australian Catholic Youth Festival's theme – 'Pilgrims of Hope'. This message calls us to be people of faith, hope, and renewal.

At St John's Regional College, students can deepen their understanding of our Catholic heritage through short films in the library, which will explore the lives of our new House Patrons. In addition, our senior student leaders will represent our school at a special Mass at St Patrick's Cathedral, joining peers from across Melbourne to honour the rich and proud tradition of Catholic education in our city.

Harmony Day Invitation – 20 March

Join us on 20 March as we celebrate Harmony Day under the theme "Where everyone belongs." This special day, nestled within the week of the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, holds deep significance for our community. It's a testament to our commitment to fostering inclusivity and respect for all individuals, guided by the fundamental belief that every person is inherently valuable and made in the image of God.

This year, our Vocational Major students, under the guidance of Ms Dias and her team, have been diligently preparing an array of activities to commemorate this occasion. From sports to cultural food stalls and a vibrant cultural fashion parade, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, be prepared to be inspired by some student performances showcasing the rich cultural heritage of our community.

Our school assembly will take place this Thursday at 10 am, and parents are warmly invited to join the celebration. This assembly will highlight the beauty and diversity of our Greek culture, reminding us of the richness that stems from embracing our differences.

We encourage students, staff, and guests alike to participate in the day's events dressed in their cultural attire, symbolising our unity amidst diversity.

2025 Swimming Carnival

Last week, our students went to Doveton Swimming Pool for the 2025 Swimming Carnival. The day, structured into a Year 7-9 Carnival in the morning and senior carnival in the afternoon was filled with enthusiasm, energy, and a strong sense of House pride, particularly from our junior students. I congratulate our swimmers for not only their athletic talent but also their commitment to teamwork and sportsmanship. The Champion House will be revealed at our school assembly next week on 20 March, so stay tuned!

I thank all students for their participation and to our Sports Academy Leader, Mr. McGee, along with the PE staff and all staff members, for their efforts in organising such a well-run carnival.

International Women's Day

Last week, our Vocational Major students took the initiative to celebrate International Women's Day with our school community. Observed annually on 8 March, this vital day highlights the ongoing pursuit of gender equality, celebrates the achievements of women worldwide, and reinforces the importance of advocating for women's rights.

We are fortunate to have the Venerable Nano Nagle as our patron and inspiration—a woman who, more than 300 years ago, dedicated her life to educating and uplifting Ireland's poor and marginalised women. Despite immense obstacles, she trusted God's work, believing in the power of education and compassion to bring about change. On this International Women's Day, we draw strength from her legacy and reaffirm our commitment to advocating for all women.

This year's International Women's Day theme is "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment." It calls on us to work towards a world where every woman and girl has access to the opportunities, respect, and recognition they deserve.

At St. John's, our students encouraged us to reflect and remind us of our role in building a more inclusive and equitable society. Their efforts remind us that change begins within our communities if we are to shape a future where all women and girls can thrive.

St John's School Tours - Enrolment Applications for 2026 & 2027

Our next open event will occur on Saturday, 22 March, at 10 am. This is an opportunity for parents and new families to hear from senior staff and tour our educational facilities.

You can book a place by contacting our College reception at (03) 8793 2000 or via the try bookings link on our school website. All enquiries are to be directed to our school Registrar, Ms Helen Phillips.

Year 12 Retreat: A Journey as Pilgrims of Hope

The Year 12 Retreat marks a significant milestone in our students' journey from Year 7 to Year 12. They need to step away from the pressures of VCE, reflect on their personal growth, and find renewed strength in their faith. Over three days at the beautiful beachside Don Bosco Camp in Dromana, students explored the defining moments of their journey and considered their hopes and aspirations for the future.

As Pilgrims of Hope, our students were invited to pause and reflect on how faith has shaped their lives and how they might carry that faith beyond the school gates. As a Catholic school, we are committed to providing experiences where students can encounter Christ's teachings meaningfully and personally. This retreat offered a space for sharing, listening, and deepening their understanding of God's presence in their lives.

Led by Fr. Luke Bulley and Program Facilitator Damian Khoury, this retreat was made possible through the generous sharing of a committed group of staff members. I particularly thank our Director of Faith & Mission, Mr. John Rhynehart, Retreat Coordinator Ms. Ash Fraraccio, and the staff who generously gave their time to support our students on this transformative journey. May the lessons and reflections from this experience guide them as they step into the future with faith, courage, and hope.

Newsletter

Issue 3 · 14 Mar 2025

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