Principal

John Freeman

 

Ash Wednesday

We marked the beginning of the Church’s season of Lent with a virtual Ash Wednesday Liturgy last week. Usually during the liturgy, the foreheads of all present would be anointed with ash, making the sign of the Cross and pronouncing the words: “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel”.  This was not possible last week. Nevertheless, we are all reminded that our “ashed” foreheads remind us that we are called, in a special way in this time of preparation for Easter, to repentance and conversion.  We are encouraged, during Lent, to make special efforts to be selfless and self-giving, generous to others and prayerful.  Lent is a time to be especially mindful of God’s love for us as we recall the self-giving of Jesus, which culminated in his death and resurrection – which we commemorate and celebrate at Easter. 

 

During this time, we need to be mindful of others who are struggling, particular the poor, repressed and refugees. Accordingly, in order to assist us in practical ways to show solidarity with all those who strive for a better life, Project Compassion Boxes have been distributed. The money collected will go to Caritas Australia which is a Catholic Agency that works towards creating a just world. More details about Project Compassion can be found at http://www.caritas.org.au/projectcompassion and you also find links on that page about this very worthwhile and effective charity.

 

Staff News

Congratulations to Edson Letendrie and his wife Rachelle and daughter Serena who have welcomed Hugo Letendrie to the world on 2 March 2022.

 

Congratulations to Cade Maskell and Georgia Riseley who are getting married on Saturday 12 March 2022.

 

Today we farewelled Kath Clarke, who will commence a new role closer to her home. We wish her and family the best of success.

 

We also farewell John McKeown, who has decided to retire after many years of service to our College. I have not known John for long, but my interactions with him leave me in no doubt that he is a man of great faith who wants the best for the young people he has worked with over the years. Whilst we do wish John all the best, we know he will continue to be part of our community, particularly at liturgies, where he will volunteer his knowledge and skills as sacristan.  

 

SSV Swimming

Congratulations to our Swimming Squad who won the SSV Divisional competition last week. They next compete on 17 March at the Regional competition. We wish them the best of success.

 

Year 7 Camp

As you are aware our Year 7 students participated in their Year 7 Camp last week. I had the opportunity to visit the Year 7 Camp on their first night at the Phillip Island Adventure Resort. It was great to see the students in that environment and hear about their day as well as watching them forging new friendships. The feedback by all involved was that they are a very good group of young people… and that was also my observation. Well done to Chris Spencer and the team.

 

We had a number of our Year 12 Leaders also visit the camp on Wednesday. It was fantastic to see their engagement with the Year 7s. The Year 12s were a great presence. Thank you to Elise Dowling for all her work organising this opportunity and also attending. Thanks as well to Scott Blencowe for his support on the evening. It is very much appreciated.

 

Sapientia Domini Docet Nos