From The Religious Education Coordinator

Pope Leo XIV’s first Apostolic Exhortation, Dilexi te, underscores the inseparability of Christian faith and love for the poor, calling for a renewed commitment to social justice and mercy

In his inaugural Apostolic Exhortation titled Dilexi te (“I have loved you”), Pope Leo XIV delivers a powerful message that authentic Christian faith must be lived out through concrete acts of love, especially toward the poor and marginalized. Drawing inspiration from the Gospel and the legacy of Saint Peter, the Pope emphasizes that the Church’s mission is incomplete without a preferential option for the poor.

Key highlights from the exhortation include:

• Faith and charity are inseparable: Pope Leo insists that belief in Christ must manifest in active compassion and solidarity with those in need. He warns against a faith that is reduced to ritual or doctrine without love.
• A call to action: The Pope urges Catholics to move beyond comfort zones and embrace the “peripheries” of society, where suffering and injustice are most acute.
• The poor as the heart of the Gospel: Echoing the teachings of his predecessors, Pope Leo reaffirms that the poor are not just recipients of charity but central to the Christian message.
• A Church of mercy: He envisions a Church that is humble, listening, and close to the people, especially those who are forgotten or excluded.

Dilexi te sets the tone for Pope Leo’s papacy, signaling a pastoral approach rooted in compassion, inclusion, and a deep concern for the social dimensions of the Gospel. It is a clarion call for believers to embody their faith through love in action, particularly by uplifting the most vulnerable in society

https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/apost_exhortations/documents/20251004-dilexi-te.html 

All Saints Day and All Souls Day 

The Solemnity of All Saints Day and the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed. On November 1st we celebrate two very important dates in the Catholic liturgical calendar: All Saints Day and All Souls Day. 

In memory of all those who gone before us, let us pray:

God of the living and the dead, through the power of Christ’s resurrection you have conquered sin and death forever. Each day is a step we take toward eternity. May we continue, day to day, until we step into your eternal presence.  Then we shall be reunited with those we love and every tear shall be wiped away.

Year 8 Reflection Day 

On Friday, 17th October, Year 8 students attended their Year 8 Reflection Day at Holy Name of Mary in Hunters’ Hill. The Scriptural basis of the Reflection Day was Jesus’ question; ‘Did I not choose you?’ from John 6:67-70. Our response to this question focused on the value of LOVE. In particular, a type of love that each and everyone one of us deserve being chosen by God in His image and likeness. The day consisted of a variety of activities including Chat-A-Box discussion cards, reflective journaling and picture frame decorating with a focus on each students’ gifts as made in the image and likeness. 

Bishop Danny and Fr Michael Carroll visited the students to enrich their understanding of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. His insights enriched the girls’ understanding and participation in the day. 

Sydney Catholic Schools Religious Education Test

On Tuesday, 21st October, every Year 8 and Year 10 students completed the Sydney Catholic Schools Religious Education (RE) Test. Every year, schools throughout the Archdiocese of Sydney, as well as dioceses throughout NSW complete this test. This test consists of 50 multiple choice questions designed to assess their skills and ability learnt through topics in Stage 4 (Year 7 and Year 8) and Stage 5 (Year 9 and Year 10). 

We extend our gratitude to the dedicated teachers who have supported our students in Religious Education. The knowledge and wisdom they impart are invaluable in nurturing the faith and understanding of our community. 

Mary’s House Fundraiser Walk

On Sunday 26th October our Marist Sisters’ College Community participated in the Mary’s House Walk, which is an initiative to supplement the fundraising efforts. A huge thank you to our Marist Sister’s community for raising $9500! This is an amazing effort for such a significant cause. The funds raised from this event will allow Mary’s House Services to provide more case management hours for women and their families seeking safety at the refuge and the provision of more programs to aid women still living in the community.

Mary’s House Services is a not-for-profit, grassroots organisation which supports women and their children escaping from domestic and family violence and abuse. Mary’s House Services was built by the community for the community, following a recognition of a gap in services within the local region. Mary’s House Services is entirely funded by the generosity of our community of donors.

https://maryshousewinterappeal.raisely.com/    

Deanery Youth Afternoon 

On Friday, 7th November, our Year 9 and 10 students will come together with peers from Marist College Eastwood and Holy Cross College for a powerful day of reflection, connection and inspiration.

The theme for this year’s gathering is Faith Over Fear – a timely reminder of the strength we find in community, courage, and belief. With the incredible support of our Student Leadership Team, the afternoon promises to be filled with meaningful dialogue, uplifting activities, and shared moments of growth.

We’re proud to be part of a vibrant deanery that nurtures faith, leadership, and unity. 

Expressions of interest for students are now closed.

MSCW Winter Appeal Launch

As we approach the festive season, MSCW is proud to launch our annual Christmas Appeal in support of two incredible organisations: St Vincent de Paul Society and Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation. This year, we’re coming together as a community to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

The appeal will officially launch in Week 4, with donations welcomed from Week 5 onwards. Whether it’s a small gift, a thoughtful contribution, or a heartfelt message, every act of generosity counts.

Let’s share the spirit of giving and help bring comfort, dignity, and joy to families this Christmas. Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved!