Religious Education Coordinator

Mr Colm McCaughan

Term 2 was another uplifting and faith‑filled season in the Religious Education Faculty as we continue to grow in our mission of sharing the Good News with our community.

Week 4 brought one of the highlights of the term: our annual Mother’s Day Mass and Morning Tea. More than 300 mothers joined us for a beautiful celebration, enriched by a heartfelt student‑made video expressing gratitude and a renewed commitment to being better sons. Jack Kennedy’s moving reflection on his own mother left more than a few eyes glistening.

Year 11 enjoyed a vibrant and joy‑filled Reflection Day with Chris Doyle from Karis Ministries, exploring the theme of Discipleship in everyday life. Many students remarked that it was the most enjoyable Reflection Day they have experienced at the College, especially with Chris’ trademark energy in getting both staff and students up singing. Year 9 also engaged deeply in their Reflection Day with Your Choicez, unpacking what healthy relationships look like in an increasingly sexualised culture. Their day concluded with their annual Year Mass celebrated by Fr Pawel, beautifully highlighting the connection between the Sacraments and daily living in our Catholic tradition.

Our largest celebration of the term was the Feast of St Marcellin Champagnat. We were honoured to welcome Bishop Tony Percy, one of Sydney’s new auxiliary bishops, who was struck by the strong sense of faith present in our community. The whole school Mass was a joyful and reverent occasion, with the boys singing the hymns and school song with pride. Guests commented on the palpable spirit and warmth that filled the hall.

In the classroom, our students continued to engage thoughtfully with their learning. Year 7 explored Sacred Scripture and its significance in the life of the Church. Year 8 examined what it means to be Alive in Christ through the Sacraments of Initiation. Year 9 delved into the diverse forms of Biblical literature, while Year 10 completed a rigorous essay on how the Sacraments of Service are lived out meaningfully in contemporary society.

A particular joy this term has been the reintroduction of the Rite of Christian Initiation for 13 students seeking to receive their sacraments. Remarkably, nine of these boys have asked to be baptised, our highest number yet. Their desire to enter more fully into the life of the Church is a powerful testament to the faith, witness and spirit alive among our staff and students.

Onwards to Term 3!