Faith and Mission
From the Mission and Identity Team
Heritage Day Mass – Celebrating the Anniversary of the Arrival of Mother Gonzaga Barry in Australia in 1875.
In our first whole school mass for Semester Two we celebrated our Loreto Heritage. We remembered the pioneering Loreto women led by Mother Gonzaga Barry who arrived in Australia in 1875. They were women of vision, and women of courage. Women who, despite the challenges that they faced, established a legacy that we are all proud to be part of today.
Below is a reflection on Mother Gonzaga Barry’s courage to say yes, written by Ms Carolyn Young, Director of Mission at Loreto Ministries.
“Mother Gonzaga was asked as she prepared to leave her home in Ireland: “How do you feel?” Her diaries tell us that she stretched out her hands with a childlike gesture and said: “I feel so: my hands are in God’s Hands. He can lead me where He wills.” With the freedom obtained by referring all things to God, Mother Gonzaga was able to turn from past ways to the adventures of the future – the new expression of mission that the state of the world, and the will of God, called her to. The efforts of Mother Gonzaga and the founding sisters have significantly contributed to Australia's pedagogy, spiritual life, and social welfare. Now, at this time in the history of the IBVM and that of the Loreto Ministries MPJP, perhaps it is particularly appropriate that we learn from the lessons of Mother Gonzaga.
In the diary of Mother Berchmans Stafford, Bishop O’Connor is reported to have greeted the Sisters at Abbotsford Convent in Melbourne with, “Well, well Sisters, here you are at last!" On this 149th anniversary of their arrival, may we again be inspired by the Loreto legacy in Australia of schools, convents, teaching colleges, kindergartens and countless social outreach missions”
Year 12 Retreat – The Mary Ward Person I Will Become...
The Year 12 students' last retreat at Nunyara in Belair was a significant milestone in their lives, providing a unique opportunity for reflection and valuable time together. The girls spent time considering their future selves, contemplating their spiritual journeys and the influence of God in their lives. The retreat also focused on understanding the teachings and legacy of Mary Ward, inspiring them to embody her values in whichever pathway they choose to take. The students heard from Old Scholars, Sam Ruggerio-Girgolas, and Georgia Minucci who spoke about how Loreto Marryatville and the values of Mary Ward had an impact on their lives. They encouraged the girls to think about living a life of purpose in their future endeavours. This time spent together allowed the Year 12 students to deepen their understanding of themselves and their faith, setting a foundation for the future Mary Ward person that they will become.
Loreto Justice Priority Focus: Human Trafficking
Justice is a cornerstone of the Loreto Tradition, reflected in the teachings of Mary Ward and the Gospel values that she held true. Justice in the Mary Ward Tradition emphasises compassion, equality, and the dignity of all people. By advocating for justice, the Loreto community seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable world, reflecting the values of truth, sincerity, and respect. The Loreto sisters and Loreto Justice Network have 5 Justice Priorities. Learn more about these priorities here: Loreto Justice Network
Addressing the injustice of human trafficking is a key justice priority for the IBVM. The latest edition of "Sustain," Mary Ward International Australia's magazine, features a project in Albania supported by MWIA. Read about this project here: Sustain Magazine (aflip.in).
This initiative helps Filipinos recognize and resist human trafficking and exploitation within their community.
Ms Martina O'Connell
Assistant Principal: Mission and Identity