From the Chaplains
Strength in Numbers
At the beginning of this term, our class of 2025 were inducted in as leaders across Pymble. In a very moving ceremony, Dr Hadwen called upon the Year 12s to encircle the entire school. For several moments, the auditorium went silent. The entire school was swept into the protection, care and leadership of the oldest students. In their induction as leaders of the school, our class of 2025 committed to being role models and representatives for the entire student body.
It reminded me of a scene in National Geographic. In North America mighty female bison travel together in herds. Especially, when predators like wolves and mountain lions come to pray on their young – the slower and more vulnerable of herd – the female bison encircle their young to form a multilayer circle of protection. The females form a ring around the young, and the males form an outer ring surrounding the females.
Their large, strong heads topped with horns and fast hooves often are enough of a deterrent to send predators elsewhere, although bison aren’t afraid to fight back if the predators decide to attack. These mighty females understand their role to create a safe space, an impenetrable guard, and strategic guide for the future generations.
In the Apostle Paul’s message to Titus, he exhorts the mature women of faith to gather around the younger women of faith. As they surround them, they are to set the example of faith, goodness, integrity and strength for the younger women. This he says, will not only encourage them but also protect them.
Such is the story of Mary and Elizabeth in the months leading up to the first Christmas. While Mary was pregnant, she visited her cousin Elizabeth who was also pregnant with John the Baptist (yes, Jesus and John the Baptist were cousins!).
The story in Luke’s Gospel recalls the way in which Elizabeth welcomed Mary into her home, to support her, creating space for her to grow. Elizabeth encouraged Mary to smile at the days to come, and most importantly, affirmed her future as the mother of the Saviour of the World. Indeed, the unborn John the Baptist leaped inside his mother Elizabeth’s tummy as Mary drew near, knowing that she carried the Chosen One.
The older woman linked to the younger woman is a powerful message for today. May we each remember that today is an opportunity to make an investment to pass something on by drawing near to protect and provide room for future generations to flourish.
Cass Blake
College Chaplain