Religious Education Coordinator – Ian Anderson
When we left term 1 we were fasting, praying and giving charity in lent. We have returned to a new term and in a season of Feast, Easter. In this time we consider the joy of the resurrection. Pope Leo, in his Easter message said, “The resurrection “opens us up to a hope that never fails, to a light that never fades, to a fullness of joy that nothing can take away.” That is the joy of the Gospel.
Holy Week
On Holy Thursday the College held a liturgy to end the term. For the students, they engaged with the Stations of the Cross, as a community. The students who produced this liturgy went on to also hold the Stations of the Cross at St Aloysius Parish for the local community. Our Senior leaders also attended Mass at St Aloysius on Thursday evening to have their feet washed as a symbol of commitment, re-creating the events of the Last Supper and Jesus’ washing the feet of the Apostles. I must thank all the students who have contributed to the running of this week and the positive way they contributed to the community.
Senior Retreat
Week 10 last term saw Mrs Bernie and Mr Anderson take the Year 11 cohort on their senior retreat where they partook in activities and quiet reflection to grow closer as a group, reflect on their friends, family, school and their relationship with God. This is an important activity for the girls to undertake at the beginning of their HSC journey and I thank the girls for the way they participated and conducted themselves.
Mercy Formation
On Friday, 24 April, a group of Year 9 students attended a Formation Day at Catherine McAuley Westmead, joining students from all five Mercy schools. The day focused on deepening their understanding of the Mercy Charism through reflection, collaboration, and shared experiences. Students explored how they and our wider community can live out the Works of Mercy and strengthen our commitment to environmental stewardship. It was a valuable opportunity for our girls to grow in faith, service, and leadership.
Alpha Program
Each Wednesday this term, the College is offering the Alpha program in the chapel during recess for any student who wishes to reflect on and grow in their relationship with God. Alpha is a twelve week faith formation program that encourages conversation, questions, and personal exploration. All students are warmly welcome to attend, and Mercy Hours are available for those who actively engage with the program.
Mercy Action Group
The Mercy Action Group is up and running again this term. Students are invited to meet in the chapel each Tuesday at recess, with a particular focus on knitting and crochet as we prepare for the colder months ahead.
All students are warmly encouraged to come along. Participating in the Mercy Action Group offers many benefits, including:
- working alongside other students for a meaningful purpose
- developing a strong sense of social justice
- deepening personal faith
- building a sense of belonging
Catechists
Each Tuesday afternoon, a dedicated group of Year 10 students has been visiting Burraneer Bay Public School to minister to young Catholics, bringing the Gospel into their classrooms. This is a very important ministry. As Catechists, our students carry the responsibility of making Jesus known and loved to children who may not otherwise hear the Gospel.
I would like to sincerely thank these young women for their commitment and for the wonderful work they do each week. They are truly living out their faith in service to others.
Religious Education Coordinator – Ian Anderson