DIRECTOR OF MISSION

RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN

For the past year and a half, St Patrick’s College Townsville has been working on implementing a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

The RAP is our commitment to reconciliation, highlighting how we respect the cultural authority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through the way we work, learn and live at the College.

Last week, during our Ancient Wisdom Staff Formation session, we acknowledged and celebrated the work of Eddie Mabo and the Meriam people who successfully fought for the rightful sovereignty to their islands in the Torres Strait.  Staff were invited to reflect and learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements and consider how we, as a community, can contribute to achieving Reconciliation in Australia.

Looking through the lens of justice, faith and fairness, staff were asked to consider…

  • How can we walk with First Nations people in the spirit of reconciliation, justice and peace?
  • What steps can we take to nurture reconciliation at St Patrick’s College Townsville?

After working through discussion prompts, groups put together their Vision for Reconciliation at St Patrick’s College Townsville.

Our RAP is an inclusive process and relies on the ongoing support of our Community. It continues to evolve and includes actions that we will deliver in the years to come to further support our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, students and families and the national reconciliation movement.

 

CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK 

In Term 3, we will join Catholic schools around Queensland and celebrate the wonderful work of our students, educators and leaders.  

 

 SPIRIT OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION AWARDS

Congratulations to our extraordinary College Chaplin, Ms Harriett Veukiso, on her nomination for a Spirit of Catholic Education Award. A practising and devout Catholic, Ms Veukiso is committed to nurturing the spiritual lives of the students of the College. She encourages students to engage in social justice and social action initiatives through membership of Mercy Girls in Action and the McAuley Ministry Group. We are so proud of her!

“Congratulations! Not surprised, always an exceptional young woman.”

“Congrats, Harriett – how blessed are we to have you at our College”

“We love you, Harriett. You truly encompass our Mercy Values” 

 

CATHOLIC SCHOOL PARENTS QUEENSLAND

Catholic School Parents Queensland is a wonderful resource to families and they will be hosting a Parent Engagement Day in Townsville on Saturday 7 August. Details can be found on their website. 

AUNTY NERIDA LAMPTON

Last week we learnt of the passing of one of our College Elders, Aunty Nerida Lampton. Aunty Nerida was, for many years, a big part of cultural and religious life of St Patrick’s College Townsville. She generously shared her time with staff and students to teach songs or just have a yarn after school. She was often present at masses and liturgies and we are ever grateful for her wisdom and kindness.  Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace.

 

 

Together we pray

Loving God.

Thank you for the gifts of our school: our students, families, friends,

staff and beautiful environment.

Be with us each day

As we journey together

As a faith-filled learning community.

Fill our hearts with compassion

And our minds with wonder.

Amen.

 

Athena Costopoulos

DIRECTOR OF MISSION