Living with Strength and Kindliness

This year we draw from the Kildare Ministries Living Justice Living Peace Charter and take up the challenge to lead with courage. Our theme that will guide us in 2023 is Courage:  Be Brave! Let the little things be stepping stones for growth.  This theme has been developed with our student leaders.  

When we think about being brave and courageous, we are gifted at St Joseph’s with many examples of this. One such example we have celebrated as staff, is St Brigid as we gathered in the hall on February 1 for her Feast Day. Brigid is known as a: Woman of hospitality; Woman of the hearth; Woman of Justice; Woman of Peace and Woman of the Earth. When we paused and reflected on the need for peace in our world, we were also challenged to reflect on how we can collectively and individually be courageous and work towards justice and peace. I couldn’t help but think, as we gathered as a group of old and new staff, myself included, of the many courageous actions we have all taken to get us where we are today.  It is indeed a gift and I excitedly look forward to this year. 

Our beautiful theme banner this year has been designed by Zoe Hickey. One of our student leaders reflected on what the theme means for us and I share below an extract from this reflection:

“I believe the 'stepping stones' are a visual representation of the journey and process to achieve your goals and taking one step at a time to benefit the future. I believe growth relates to courage as growth comes from courage. To grow you must be courageous.”

On Sunday we celebrated Word of God Sunday, a feast day instituted by Pope Francis and recognised by the Australian Church on Sunday 5 February. The theme of the readings was light and how we can share our light and gift with others in our community. As we step into this year with all the excitement, unknowns and joy it promises, this feast day calls us to look for ways we can share our gifts and talents with others in a courageous manner. 

Lee Pethybridge

College Leader - Faith and Community