From the Deputy Principal, Secondary

From the Deputy Principal, Secondary

Over the past week we have celebrated the awards ceremonies for Years 7 to 11. We have entered the season of Advent, as we joyfully wait for the birth of Jesus. Jesus entered the messiness and chaos of the world as a baby in a manger. Our lives, whilst relatively ordered, always have a splattering of ‘mess’… in fact, sometimes more of a truck load! Christmas reminds us that the Prince of Peace enters this mess, not to remove it, but to transform our response to it. Life is difficult, decisions are out of our control, life is out of our control, but the way we respond to life determines if we see the mess or see Jesus.

I pray that our boys can spend some time reflecting on their year. In the messiness of families, society and school, our boys live and grow.  Taking the time to reflect on the Four Pillars is a simple and effective strategy for a positive 2020 start.

Prayer

Have I stopped and thanked God? Have I acknowledged God as being actively involved in my life? Do I pray? Have I involved myself in the liturgical life of the school? How can I improve my prayer life in 2020?

Study

How has my study been? Have I worked to the best of my potential? Have I asked teachers enough questions? Have I collaborated with my friends? What can I do to improve in 2020?

Community

Have I made good choices to build community? Have I supported my friends? Have I been welcoming to all at Blackfriars? How can I improve community in 2020?

Service

Have I helped others in need? Have I been empathetically conscious of other people? Have I made a positive difference? How can I do more for others in 2020?

Congratulations to all the boys who won awards. Students who achieved an A average or above 85 received an Academic Merit Award for displaying excellence. It was magnificent to witness multitudes of students receiving awards. Students also received our Gold Awards and Endeavour Awards. Comprehensive lists of all award winners are available for download below.

Blessings and Peace for Christmas and the New Year.

Mr David Ruggiero (BPS'92)

Deputy Principal, Secondary (7-12)