Religious Education Coordinator – Ian Anderson
In recent weeks, the Catholic Church has experienced a profound moment in its history. While we have been celebrating the most sacred season of our liturgical calendar, the Church has also been in the global spotlight following the passing of Pope Francis and the subsequent Conclave to elect his successor.
It is with great joy that we welcome Pope Leo XIV as the new leader of the Catholic Church. His election marks a new chapter, and we look forward with hope to the guidance and inspiration he will bring—not only to the Church but to the wider world.
Pope Leo XIV was born and educated in the United States and has spent a significant part of his ministry in Peru, engaged in missionary work. As an Augustinian priest, he brings with him a deep commitment to education and evangelisation. His choice of the name Leo is notable: St Leo the Great was also an Augustinian, and Pope Leo XIII is well known for his encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed the rights and dignity of workers and remains a cornerstone of Catholic social teaching. These connections may offer us insights into the values and priorities Pope Leo XIV may bring to his papacy.
As a school community, let us continue to pray daily for Pope Leo XIV and his intentions, asking God to guide him with wisdom and strength as he leads the Church into the future.
Holy Week Liturgy
At the end of last term, our students commemorated the death of Jesus through the Stations of the Cross. These wonderful women read, sang and performed, helping all our students connect to the events on Good Friday.
During the school holidays, they reprised their roles at St Aloysius Parish in Cronulla. These young women, alongside Fr James created a wonderful experience for all the Cronulla parishioners.
Upon returning to Our Lady of Mercy College for the beginning of Term Two, our community gathered to celebrate the Easter Liturgy. As we concluded Term One reflecting on the solemnity of the Crucifixion, we returned uplifted by the hope and joy of the Resurrection.
During the liturgy, we heard the Gospel readings from Easter Sunday, reminding us of the triumph of life over death. We also had the opportunity to renew our Baptismal promises, affirming our faith and commitment as a Catholic community. The celebration concluded with a special Easter blessing from Fr James, sending us forth in the spirit of renewal and joy.
One Meal
Our Lady of Mercy College continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting the needs of our local community. In particular, our involvement with One Meal reflects our dedication to living out the Mercy values through acts of service and compassion.
Recently, students and their families volunteered their time to serve meals to disadvantaged members of the Sutherland Shire community. This act of hospitality went beyond simply providing food, it offered warmth, dignity, and connection to those who may feel isolated or unsupported.
It was truly inspiring to witness our students not only give generously of themselves, but also experience the deep fulfilment that comes from serving others. One student expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I want to do this every week.”
This powerful example of Christian service highlights the spirit of Mercy that defines our College community. We are proud of the compassion, generosity, and empathy shown by our students and their families, and we look forward to continuing this important work in the future.
Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Pope Francis’ ‘Laudato Si’ Encyclical. ‘Care for our Common Home’
A reminder that St Aloysius Parish has an event for parents, students, teachers and parishioners exploring the 10th Anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si.
When: Tuesday 20th May at 6:00PM
Where: Parish Meeting Room (opposite the church in Giddings Avenue)
Please register by name your intention to attend by using the QR code or email direct. fodriscoll46@gmail.com
Special guest, SSC Councillor, Kal Glanznig will be making an appearance. Councillor Glanznig heads the Council’s Renewables Committee. See more at https://www.kal.gl/mystory
Sponsored by St Aloysius Social Justice and Earth care Groups
Ian Anderson – Religious Education Coordinator