From the Chaplains

“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.” – Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

It has been a great honour this term to take on the role of Assistant Chaplain, alongside the Rev. Punam Bent. It is an honour because this work is focused on the nurturing of the spiritual life of the College, and I cannot think of anything more important than this.

I love to see the students in Chapel, and to know that it is a welcoming space for all of them, whatever their faith background or spiritual practice. Our Chapel is the heart of the College, both physically and metaphorically, and it provides a space where at least once a week each student can slow down, pause, pray or simply reflect on some of the bigger questions of life.

I remember sitting in Chapel as a Pymble student myself, looking up at the sun shining through the beautiful stained glass windows. Those times in Chapel gave me an anchor and a safe place at school, amidst all the busyness and ups and downs of teenagehood.

I strongly believe that we are not merely physical, intellectual and emotional beings – we are also spiritual creatures who yearn for spiritual sustenance and peace.

Pierre Teilhard de Chardin was a French philosopher, palaeontologist and Jesuit priest who thought deeply about the way our spirit, our soul, connects us with the Divine. He wrote that “we are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.”

His words resonate strongly with me because they pull me out of today’s present, physical, immediate reality and remind me that there is another spiritual reality that we are a part of. 

Working alongside Rev. Punam Bent is a great joy. I look forward to the year ahead, as together we strive to spiritually nourish and support the Pymble community. I pray that all of us can somehow acknowledge the spiritual in ourselves.

And may the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Edwina O’Brien

Assistant Chaplain