Mission News

Prayers

We pray for those called home to heaven, especially

• Conor O’Donovan (2014), brother of Aidan (2018) and son of Majella and Gerry, who passed away unexpectedly

We pray for all in our community who are sick or suffering. 

We pray for all those impacted by the latest outbreak of COVID-19 in this country. 

May our loving God, with Mary and Champagnat, walk with all members of the Marist family. Amen.

Chaplain’s Corner

August 8: Solemnity of St Mary of the Cross (MacKillop). Two themes, ‘poverty’ and ‘trust’ leap out from the readings for Mary MacKillop’s feast day, both befitting Australia’s first saint. Poverty in itself is a lack, a harsh suffering, even a death sentence for those like the widow of Zarephath (first reading), as well as many families that Mary MacKillop served in 19th century Australia. From another perspective, poverty can be embraced as a gospel path, as a way to draw close to the poor and to God who loves the poor. This path refers not only to the vocations of people like Mary MacKillop, but to an attitude to life itself: the willingness to trust not in material possessions but in the steadfast love of God (Gospel), the decision to let go of personal security in order to reach out to others (second reading). Mary MacKillop lived life on all these fronts. She knew the bitterness of material impoverishment, she embraced God’s love for the poor, and she boldly trusted in God to use her life and gifts in the service of the gospel.

Mary, our Good Mother, pray for us.

St. Marcellin Champagnat, pray for us.

St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us.

And may we always remember to pray for one another.

Mary MacKillop painting by Jan Williamson hangs in the College Chapel 

Vinnie’s Sleepout Cancellation

Under the current COVID-19 restrictions, we are not able to hold our annual Sleepout. The Sleepout (already rescheduled) for Friday 20 August is sadly cancelled.

Vinnies Thursday Morning BBQ is also cancelled for Weeks 5 and 6 - Thursday 12 August and Thursday 17 August. 

Game Changers

Becoming Better Leaders

As part of the Game Changers opportunities offered to students, we invite Year 10 students to register for the La Valla Leadership Experience. Taking place online across two evenings (Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 August), this program will focus on building up students’ confidence through fun games, practical learning experiences and insightful reflections. Virtually gathered with Marist schools throughout Queensland and the Northern Territory, this is an opportunity for MCA boys to collaborate with their peers from across the broader Marist family. Facilitated by Marist Youth Ministry, this is a free program available to Year 10 students only. Any students or parents interested in the La Valla Leadership Experience can email Mr Burns for more information.

Reflection 

Let us pray to the God whose mercy endures forever

For daily life,

With its sunshine and rain,

Toil and rest,

Food and drink,

Love and friendship,

Tears and laughter -

Give thanks to the Lord,

For he is good: His mercy endures forever.

For people who love us enough

To put up with us when we are irritable,

Thoughtless, selfish, or unkind -

Give thanks to the Lord,

For he is good: His mercy endures forever.

For the generous bonus

Of knowing the love of God

Through Jesus Christ,

That in him we live and move

And have our being -

Give thanks to the Lord,

For he is good: His mercy endures forever.

This prayer we offer through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.