From the Principal
The Archbishop of Sydney Award for Student Excellence: Congratulations to Arielle Bonserio
The Archbishop of Sydney’s Awards for Student Excellence, an annual award ceremony involving 50 Catholic secondary schools, was held on Friday, 3 September. Due to our COVID-19 environment, this ceremony was held via Zoom.
This prestigious annual award, sponsored by the Archbishop of Sydney, Anthony Fisher OP, recognises the outstanding young women and men in Catholic schools across Sydney. It is an important way of profiling the very positive contribution that young people make to their schools and local communities to change and improve the world. It is also an affirmation of the support that families offer their children, and public acclaim for the commitment and dedication of their teachers. It is always such a lovely occasion and students were praised highly and thanked warmly by the Archbishop, sending the message that our Church of the future is in good hands. This hope-filled message was reiterated by SCS Executive Director, Tony Farley, in his address to the students. It was very uplifting to see the number of our young people across Sydney who are active in positive ways within their communities.
Our very worthy College recipient for 2021 is Year 12 student, Arielle Bonserio. As an MSCW community, we are very proud of Arielle. I share with you Arielle’s citation, outlining the wonderful ways she has been active at MSCW and in her Parish.
Arielle is a young woman of exceptional faith, as evidenced by her witness, dedication and commitment to the Catholic and spiritual life of Marist Sisters’ College. In her role as House Liturgy Captain, Arielle regularly leads the College in prayer and assists with College and House liturgies. Arielle is an enthusiastic advocate in each of the College Social Justice and Faith-In-Action groups. She generously engages in Marist Youth Ministry events, which have included the Australian Catholic Youth Festival in Perth in 2019. As a committed parishioner, Arielle is an altar server at Holy Spirit Parish North Ryde. In addition, she is a regular participant in Parish events such as Stations of the Cross, Holy Thursday Liturgy and the Parish Sacramental Program. Within the College community, Arielle is a highly regarded faith leader. Her actions consistently reflect the College motto, ‘Goodness above all’.”
The End of a Challenging Term
Tomorrow, as the school holidays begin, I wish all families, and particularly our Marist girls, a well-earned break. My strong recommendation for the holidays is to stay off your screens. Take the time to read at least one book, keep up your exercise routine, catch-up on sleep and eat – maybe cooking for the family some great, nutritious meals and treats. You should be very proud of yourselves and what you have achieved in this lockdown period of remote learning.
I have been inspired by your daily resolve to stay positive and take a pragmatic stance when things were hard. I thank you for looking after each other as ‘sisters’, reaching out when you knew someone needed that gentle reassurance or just to connect. Thank you also for looking after your teachers and for those who regularly said ‘thank you’. These two small words mean a lot.
I applaud our staff, both teaching and support, for their ability to be so flexible, adapt quickly and, like you, choose the positive path when things at times were overwhelming.
I have missed you all this term, as well as the normal ‘buzz’ of school life. Marist Sisters’ College needs you for the College to thrive. Empty schools were never meant to be. I look forward to your return next term. In the meantime, enjoy a well-earned break. Stay safe and well.
