From the Chaplains

First of all, I would like to wish my fellow Indian community a very happy Dusshera and season of Diwali! May light and life be yours as you celebrate in community. 

This week in Chapel we focused on our circle of control in life. I used the image drawn by ex-student Jess Harwood who is an artist and lawyer and does some amazing work through her art. 

As we reflect on the issues around domestic violence and war around the world, we are mindful of the trauma surrounding our communities impacted by news that can sadden our hearts and minds. By reminding ourselves what our circle of control is we can pace ourselves and generate light and love to those around us. This will help us to keep walking through a hectic term. 

I couldn’t hand out my treats to children on Halloween evening as no one came to collect them; my son said I should have decorated the fence with ghosts and ghouls.  

This opportunity now gone, I shared with the students in Chapel how I have been enjoying the beauty of our Pymble campus with the blossoming Jacaranda and all the other trees. My favourite is the Ilawarra Flame tree, as one student educated me. It is right in front of reception and is blossoming in all its glory. 

As we think of moments passing us by, perhaps grief, heavy hearts, and the sadness of all we hear and absorb in a day, may God who is our comfort and strength be the One who sustains us, and may we be able to offer comfort to one another with all we receive. ‘….The only pilgrimage necessary is the one that, by virtue of our birth we have already embarked upon, the journey of life itself.’ – Rabbi Alvin Fine 

May the good Lord sustain you and keep you well and loved as we step into November.  

---

Reverend Punam Bent

College Chaplain