The Anchor

Principal's Report

Principal Report

Like most people, Christmas for me is a time of reflection and great enjoyment particularly with my family as we share in the traditions set by our parents and grandparents.  There are many things I enjoy, but listening to Christmas carols is always an avenue through which my thoughts are drawn to the true meaning of Christmas and the glory of God evident though the gift of His Son, Jesus. Celebrating Christmas is not something that all Christians throughout time were able to do.

 

I was drawn to an interesting reflection on a well known Christmas song, The Twelve Days of Christmas that historians believe is actually a Christian hymn in disguise. During the reign of England’s Queen Elizabeth I, a staunch Protestant, English Catholics were oppressed and persecuted.  Priests met secretly with small groups of Catholics, risking their lives to conduct worships and observe mass.  The priest found a unique way to teach the Gospel to children using the twelve days between Christmas and Epiphany, when the wise men according to tradition, arrived with their gifts for baby Jesus. The meaning of each line in the song may help to enrich your understanding of this Christmas song as you prepare for Christmas this year.

 

On the first Day of Christmas my true love gave to me – the ‘true Love’ referred to God the Father and 'me’ represents Christians who receive the gifts.

 

The Partridge in the Pear Tree is Jesus.  The mother Partridge was known for simulating injury, to decoy predators from their babies, and represents Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf.

  • Two Turtle Doves:  the Old and New Testament
  • Three French Hens:  symbolize Faith, Hope and Love – three great virtues
  • Four calling birds:   the four Gospels
  • Five golden rings:   the first five books of the bible – the Pentateuch
  • Six geese a-laying :   six days of creation
  • Seven swans a-swimming:    seven gifts of the Holy Spirit
  • Eight maids a-milking:   the eight beatitudes of Matthew 5
  • Nine ladies dancing:  nine choirs of angels
  • Ten lords a-leaping :    the Ten Commandments
  • Eleven pipers piping:   eleven faithful apostles
  • Twelve drummers drumming:    the twelve articles of the Apostles' Creed.

Nelson's Complete Book of Stories, Illustrations and Quotes, Robert J. Morgan

 

As you enjoy the Christmas break with your family and friends, may you find joy in the birth of Jesus, a baby that was heralded over many centuries and remains a strong source of peace and grace for millions of people throughout the world today. 

 

Thank you to all parents and caregivers for your support of the College throughout 2018.  Thank you for your support of your child and their learning whether that has been in attending information evenings, music and performances, learning conversations, or the time and encouragement you give them at home. Reading though the many reports, it is wonderful to see the outstanding achievements of many of our students both the in-class learning and the contributions beyond the classroom. Congratulations go to them for their efforts –they all deserve a wonderful break.

 

As the year comes to an end, I would to acknowledge and thank Philip Cranswick, Michy Kris, Tim Reynolds, Theresa Salvemini, Josiah Woodberry and Joshua Zhao who complete contracts at the College.  Toni Fullerton has resigned after two years and is acknowledged for the support and care she provided students through Student Services. I also thank Emmett Cashel who leaves after two years to take up a position at Clare next year. Lisa Katsikitis has resigned and moves to Golden Grove Lutheran in 2019.  She is to be acknowledged for her past five years at Endeavour where she single-handedly set up the Japanese program taking it from Year 8 including Year 7 in 2016, to preparing our first Year 12 class this year. She was also instrumental in establishing Japanese tours and hosting Japanese schools.  Blessings go to all staff leaving for their future,

 

The College also wishes Mark Slaven a refreshing break and God’s blessing as he takes Long Service Leave in Term 1 next year.

 

My thanks to all staff, for their wonderful dedication to our students and the broader community this year. The College is grateful for the care they provide for our students and for the expertise they bring to their roles in the College.

 

I wish all families a wonderful break and a blessed Christmas and New Year. 

 

Heather Vogt

Principal

 

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Isaiah 9:6