Mission

One of the welcome initiatives of 2020 was the freeing of time in the timetable to allow year groups to meet on a more regular basis. This not only allows more time for the pastoral and academic care of our young men, but an opportunity for us as leaders to spend time with particular year groups. Over the last two weeks, I have had the opportunity to attend two of these meetings – one with Year 7 and one with Year 11.   

Year 7 Gathering

The Year 7 cohort gathered in the Chapel to reflect on Gratitude. Our prayer centred on a story well known in Marist communities, and easily recognisable in the artwork which hangs in the entrance foyer of the College administration block – the Memorare in the Snow.

In February 1823, Marcellin learned that Brother Jean Baptiste, in a town far away, had come down with a serious illness. With Brother Stanislaus, Champagnat set out on the twenty‐kilometre journey across rough countryside to visit him. On their return trip the two men were caught in the full fury of one of the region’s snowstorms and became lost. Hours of wandering led to exhaustion. As night set in and the possibility of death in the snow increased, they turned to Mary for help and prayed the Memorare. 

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, 

O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, 

sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

Within a short while, they saw a lit lantern, not too far away in the distance. A local farmer, Mr Donnet, had left his house to enter a nearby stable. This particular evening, though, he had taken an unusual route, especially with the storm underway. By habit, he usually entered the stable through a convenient door in the wall of the house. For reasons that can be explained only by faith, this particular night he braved wind and snow and chose a route that took him outdoors with his lantern. Marcellin and Stanislaus found refuge from the storm in the farmer’s house.

For the rest of his days, Marcellin saw his deliverance and that of Brother Stanislaus—henceforth referred to as the Memorare in the Snow – as an act of Providence.

After listening to the story and reflecting on the power of prayer, the boys of Year 7 reflected on how grateful Marcellin Champagnat would have been. They then wrote some prayers of their own, expressing gratitude for the blessings in their lives. Some of these are shared below. 

Lovely reflections Gentlemen of Year 7!

Year 11 Gathering

The Year 11 cohort gathered to prepare for their leadership of the student body as the Senior class from Term 4. Mrs Sawyer, Mr Bingham and Mr Ivancic shared some insights on leadership and the young men were encouraged to think about the characteristics which they needed to develop to be successful, authentic leaders. Three of the current student leaders- David de Vecchis, Michael Zappia and Lindsay Munro - also addressed the group, explaining the roles they took on this year and reflecting on the skills they have developed and the rewards which have come their way as a result of their work in leadership.

An important part of the reflection focused on the fact that whilst there would be 16 students chosen as elected leaders, every student in the year group would be wearing a senior badge and would therefore be expected to behave as a leader in the College. This means they are expected to:

• promote the ethos of the College - act as role models for students by reflecting the highest standards of behaviour and the highest example in dress, attendance, conduct and involvement in College co-curricular events
• have pride in the school environment and encourage students to uphold the rules and expectations of the College
• be present – to demonstrate high levels of attendance and be confident in participating in College events.

The Year 11 gentlemen will now have the opportunity to submit an application to be considered for an elected leadership position for 2021. Details of the process will be emailed to Year 11 families before the end of term. I wish them well in this time of discernment.

Mrs Cathie Clarke

Director of Mission

Marist Youth Ministry Super Connect 

On Friday 12 June, the Marist Youth Ministry Super Connect (MYMSC) was put into an online environment where students from a range of Marist schools across NSW and ACT participated in a Zoom meeting to celebrate a very different Champagnat Week.

There were 47 people who joined the Zoom call, and the evening consisted of Marcellin Champagnat related activities such as “Kahoot” and “Would You Rather”. We learnt about the many characteristics of St Marcellin, such as Solidarity. We then split into Zoom breakout rooms which consisted of St Gregory’s College and St Joseph’s College students and teachers. We also discussed initiatives around R U OK? Day.

Overall, this was a unique experience and showed what can be achieved online during these current conditions.

By Christopher Seton & Jack Stewart