Mary MacKillop Newsletter

Catholic Identity and Mission 

Mr John Ryan - Deputy Principal

National Reconciliation Week gives the College an opportunity to demonstrate the actions of our tradition and beliefs. By involving ourselves in Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week activities and liturgies, we as a College community commit to truth and reconciliation. We need to say sorry to enter a space of reconciliation. As Catholics we are active in our forgiveness and called to be in dialogue with our first people. This is being authentically sacramental. 

 

Below is excerpt from the pastoral lesson undertaken by all students in the College last week.

 

NATIONAL SORRY DAY

 

Please read or discuss the following information with students regarding the significance of National Sorry Day. 

What is National Sorry Day?

National Sorry Day is a special day that occurs in Australia on 26th May every year. It is a day of remembrance and commemoration held to highlight the impact of past policies of forcible removal on the Stolen Generations, their families, and their communities.

National Sorry Day is of particular significance to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia.

The day is an opportunity for all Australians to remember past mistakes and build stronger bridges for a richer, stronger future together.

What Happens During National Sorry Day?

National Sorry Day is a yearly opportunity for all Australians to reflect upon the mistakes of the past, learn more about what the current issues facing Indigenous Australians are, and outwardly show their commitment towards reconciliation.

Typical activities and events that take place during National Sorry Day include:

  • Concerts and Theatre
  • Barbecues and Social events
  • Reconciliation walks or street marches
  • Speeches from Indigenous Australian elders, other community leaders, and educators
  • Media statements from politicians in Federal, State, and Local Governments.

Sorry Day Activity

 

Explain the purpose of an Acknowledgment of Country 

 

An Acknowledgement of Country is a statement that shows awareness of and respect for the Traditional Custodians of the land you are on and their long and continuing relationship with the land. Unlike a Welcome to Country, it can be delivered by anyone – Indigenous or non-Indigenous. Acknowledgements of Country can take place at the beginning of events. They can also be printed in publications and websites and on signs, for example near the entrance of your site.

 

 

 

 

Walkathon 2021

 

On 8 August our College celebrates the Feast of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop.  On this day we complete a walk of approximately ten kilometres. This year we hope to complete the walk from Koonwarra to Mary MacKillop College.

 

We walk in solidarity to bring awareness to charities we support. The College has raised nearly $400,000 dollars over the past twenty two years. 

 

Here is how you can help

 

Please nominate a charity using the form attached in this email.

  1. All charities proposals must be completed by June 7
  2. These proposals can be emailed to Mr Ryan at jryan@mmcrc.vic.edu.au
  3. We try to select three to four charities. An International Charity, a Victorian or  Australian Charity and few local Charities
  4. All charities chosen must utilise 100 per cent of the funds raised for their cause (no  overheads)
  5. The Walkathon Committee meets every week starting next week to discuss  planning and the selection of Charities. If you want to be part of this group let John know.

If you have further questions please email Mr Ryan.