From the Principal

This week we celebrate our Founders, Mary Ward, St Ignatius of Loyola and St Pope John XXIII. Monday 31 July is the Feast of St Ignatius and today we celebrate our College Feast Day, John XXIII Day. It is certainly fitting to reflect on the rich history and profound influence Mary Ward, St Ignatius of Loyola and St Pope John XXIII have had on our College and the world at large. All three inspired lives of purpose and compassion.

Born in 1585 in England, Mary Ward’s counter-cultural impact on the education of women has left an indelible mark on the principles we uphold in our College today. Embracing her ideals, we continue to strive to create a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment that fosters not only academic excellence but also personal growth and spiritual development.

St Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) continues to be a profound influence on our educational philosophy and approach to education. Born in 1491 in Spain, St Ignatius embarked on a transformative journey of faith and self-discovery, understanding that education was not merely about imparting knowledge but about guiding the intellectual, spiritual and moral growth of individuals.

At John XXIII College, the Ignatian spirit resonates through our commitment to ‘cura personalis’ - caring for everyone’s unique gifts, challenges and aspirations. Our emphasis on the development of the whole person, emphasising discernment, reflection and service is a testament to the enduring legacy of St Ignatius.

Pope John XXIII, born Angelo Roncalli in 1881, was a humble visionary. His papacy brought about a renewed sense of hope and unity to the Catholic Church and the broader world community. Often referred to as the ‘Good Pope’, he believed in dialogue, reconciliation, and cooperation as the means to bridge divides and promote understanding.

Pope John XXIII’s most significant contribution came with the calling of the Second Vatican Council, which sought to renew and update the Church’s teachings in response to the modern world’s challenges. His encyclical ‘Pacem in Terris’ called for peace among all nations and laid the groundwork for promoting social justice and human rights.

At John XXIII College, we honour Pope John XXIII’s commitment to peace and justice by instilling a sense of global awareness and social responsibility within our students. Our service programs, outreach activities and advocacy for marginalised communities embody the teachings of this visionary leader.

Long may we continue to cherish and emulate the virtues of these inspiring figures, cultivating a spirit of discernment, love and service within our College community and beyond. 

I extend my thanks to all of the students and staff who so wholeheartedly engaged in the plethora of activities on offer today to celebrate John XXIII Day. All proceeds raised during the day will be divided between Mary Ward International and Jesuit Mission. A big thank you to everyone for generously contributing to these important causes.

Daniel Mahon

Principal