From the Religious Education Coordinator

In our Church ……

We ponder as Mary did, we wait as Mary did…….

Throughout Advent, we engage in the practice of opening our hearts to the presence of Christ among us. We eagerly await glimpses of the truth that he is with us, yearning to experience the joy of his presence and the wonder of God’s love. Our God, who took on flesh and dwelt among us, continues to be with us through his Spirit, encouraging us to actively participate in the unfolding of God’s Kingdom in the present.

During the Advent season, our focus is on emulating Mary’s example by contemplating the Word of God, allowing its resonance to permeate our hearts and influence our lives. Spanning four weeks, our faith tradition guides us to explore the mystery of Christ as revealed in the Advent Gospels and artistic representations. We receive an invitation to come together, encounter, recall, reflect, share, connect, and contemplate how our lives can be transformed as a result of these experiences.

By fostering a sense of community through the sharing of our stories, questions, and open hearts and minds, we create a supportive environment that uplifts, honours, and learns from one another. As we venture forth with anticipation and joy into this Advent season, we carry with us the collective wisdom of our shared journey.

Send Us Out with Anticipation and Joy 

At this time of Advent, 

fire our imaginations

with the sweep of your salvation.

Catch us up

in the cause of your kingdom, 

already breaking into this world

in our ransomed lives

yet waiting for its final fulfilment when Christ shall come again.

And let your Spirit, 

wild as the wind, 

gentle as the dove,

move within us and among us,

to enliven our worship and strengthen our faith 

and send us out with anticipation and joy. 

 

John Harvey

 

FAITH IN ACTION……

Advent Liturgy

The Marist Sisters’ College Community celebrated our Advent Liturgy this week. The Liturgy focused on the Gospel of John 4:5-30 with a reflection on the 

Samaritan woman:

“The Gospel story of Jesus and the Woman of Samaria resonates deeply with the Advent theme of hope. 

This meeting itself is an act of hope, breaking cultural and societal barriers, as Jews and Samar

itans typically did not associate with each other. By engaging with her, Jesus offers hope to those marginalised and alienated. In their conversation, Jesus speaks of the “living water” which represents eternal life and spiritual renewal, echoing the Advent message of the coming Messiah who brings hope and salvation to the world. When Jesus reveals 

himself as the Messiah to the woman, it ignites hope not just in her, but in her entire community. This revelation aligns with Advent, a season of anticipation and preparation for the arrival of Jesus, who embodies hope for all humanity. Finally, this story highlights that the hope Jesus brings is universal, transcending all boundaries. Advent is a time to reflect on this inclusive hope, celebrating the love and salvation that Christ offers to all people.” 

We also farewelled our staff who will be leaving us this year: 

Dr Anne Ireland, Ms Stephanie Dito, Ms Mary-Anne Boutros, Ms Carolyn Criss, Ms Samantha Ison, Ms Marissa Watson, Ms Chloe Finlayson, Mr Harley Keller, Ms Rebecca Bombaci, Ms Carly Boaler, Ms Bonnie Chen, Ms Nicola Savvidis, Mr Liam Story, Mr Jack Newey and Mr Alexander Nomikos

We say ‘thank you’. You have provided expert guidance showing immense patience, generosity of your time and dedication to your students. Travelling alongside us in our secondary school journey, your passion for teaching and commitment has fostered a great sense of support that has inspired us to strive to achieve each day. Accept this gift as a sign of our gratitude for your lasting contribution to Marist Sisters’ College.

May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Ms Samantha Ison

Assistant Religious Education Coordinator

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #1, #2