FAITH MATTERS 

A Time of Reflection, Action and Hope

As we move toward the end of Term 1, we find ourselves entering a deeply significant time in our Catholic tradition, while also celebrating the many ways our school community continues to live out our theme of Conscious Compassion.

Next week, our Year 12 students will take part in their Retreat experience. This is always a special opportunity for our young people to pause in the busyness of their final year, to reflect on their journey so far, and to consider who they are becoming. Through shared experiences, personal reflection and meaningful conversations, the Retreat invites students to deepen their sense of belonging, recognise their own strengths, and look with hope toward the future. We keep our Year 12 students and staff in our prayers as they enter into this important time.

This Sunday also marks the beginning of Holy Week with Palm Sunday. Holy Week is the most sacred time in the Christian calendar. It invites us to walk closely with Jesus through the final days of his life—his welcome into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, his suffering and death on the cross, and ultimately the joy of his resurrection at Easter.

While Easter in our wider culture is often associated with chocolate eggs and the Easter bunny, these symbols have developed over time as signs of new life and celebration. However, at its heart, Easter is about something much deeper. It is about hope, sacrifice, love and new life. It reminds us that even in the most difficult moments, light can overcome darkness, and life can emerge from loss. For people of faith, Easter is a powerful reminder of God’s enduring love for us all.

Over the past few weeks, our Faith and Mission team has continued to bring our theme of Conscious Compassion to life in practical and meaningful ways. At our recent Athletics Carnival, we held the Big Water Walk, raising awareness of the millions of people around the world who must walk long distances each day to access clean and safe water. This simple but powerful activity helped our students to step, quite literally, into the experience of others.

Our school community has also been generously supporting Project Compassion through Caritas Australia. It has been wonderful to see the enthusiasm across homerooms, including our much-anticipated “weigh-in” moments! We look forward to announcing our final total and celebrating the collective effort of our community in supporting those most in need.

As we approach the Easter break, we are invited to slow down, to reflect, and to reconnect with what truly matters. May this Holy Week be a time of peace and renewal for you and your families.

Wishing all members of our community a safe, restful and blessed Easter.

Loving God, 

As we journey through Holy Week, 

help us to walk with compassion, courage and hope. 

Open our hearts to the needs of others, 

and remind us of the new life that Easter brings. 

May we be people of light, love and deep kindness. 

Amen.

Jesus light of the world, guide us 

St Joseph, journey with us 

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us 

Alison Wright

Director of Faith and Mission