Principal's Message

Christmas – A Time of Joy!

I begin with an apology for my absence during this final week with students. Having dodged COVID for the majority of the school year, it finally caught up with me this week! Disappointingly, I was not able to physically attend important symbolic events such as the Junior School Presentation Evening, Trinity Regatta, final Year Assemblies, Year 6 Graduation Mass, Kairos #62 and the Year 9 Becoming Men –‘The Return’ Ceremony. However, I was able to get regular and wonderful feedback on each important event and the manner in which the community has gathered to recognise the significance of each as we conclude the academic year and approach the summer break.

Unfortunately, as has increasingly come to be the norm for many of us, we are likely to be approaching the Christmas period at breakneck speed, concerned with finalising work commitments ahead of the many preparations that need to be completed prior to Christmas festivities. With the Christmas season being increasingly portrayed as a time characterised by urgency and indulgence, we must remind ourselves to listen out for the simple and beautiful message of Christmas and the joy of this season.

Christ was born into the most modest of surroundings. The lack of ceremony associated with the humble surrounds of his birth in a stable should serve as a reminder that Christmas is meant to be a simple and joyful occasion where we are all reminded of the importance of relationships. As Christians, we are challenged to return to the joy of Christmas. We are reminded of the importance of spending relaxing and quality time with family and friends so as to truly appreciate the important place of people in our lives and the important place of God in our lives. 

As Christian people, it is essential that we do not allow the power and simplicity of the Christmas message to become lost in the frenetic pace of this holiday period. In reflecting on the humble nature of His birth, we are challenged not to pass up those opportunities to renew important and truly meaningful relationships with family and close friends. What a great gift at Christmas and cause for true celebration.

This sentiment was wonderfully captured by Irish Bishop, Liam McDaid in his reflection on Christmas:

“Leave aside the cards, the presents and the extras for a few days and instead talk and listen to the one whose birth we are planning to celebrate. He has things to say to us that could change our perspective and lessen our worries as we count our blessings. Christ could show us how celebrating the simpler, long-lasting and more precious gifts of life and living can make for a different but ultimately more satisfying experience of Christmas joy and togetherness”.

This is a timely message and a wonderful challenge for us all as we enjoy this holiday period.

On behalf of all staff at Trinity College,  I would like to wish all of the students, families and Staff within our Community a happy and holy Christmas. I hope that you get the opportunity to share the real message of Christmas – that it is a time of joy and an opportunity for reflection and relationship building. We pray that the gentle humility with which Jesus came into the world will serve as an example and inspiration for all people. May His peace and love characterise your festive season.

As is always the case at the end of the school year, we have a number of students and staff who will be leaving our College community in order to follow different pathways. To those who are leaving us, you do so with our best wishes and many blessings. Good luck into next year and we trust that some of the TC Spirit goes with you.

Finally, a personal thanks to the Trinity College community for the generous support that I receive as the College Principal. I continue to be humbled by the kindness and good wishes of so many people. To all, I extend many prayers and wish you a Happy and Holy Christmas as we look forward to a wonderful 2023. Once again, I advise our families that our academic year will commence earlier next year with the first day for all students (Year 4-12) scheduled for Monday, 30 January. Further details will be communicated early next year.

I hope that everyone is able to enjoy a safe and relaxing holiday break.

Live Jesus in our hearts.