Director of Mission

Athena Costopoulos

Laudato Si – Five Years On – It’s Time for an Ecological Conversion

From our idyllic position on the Strand, it is difficult to comprehend the turmoil and devastation that has affected our nation over the holidays. Bushfires and extreme weather have ravaged the country, destroying lives, property, and the biodiversity of the land.

It has been five years since Pope Francis published his encyclical, Laudato Si: On Care For Our Common Home. As a college community, we are actively engaged in addressing the important messages of the Papal letter. We see the destruction of the natural environment and the impact this has on the poor and most vulnerable.

Ultimately, the Holy Father asks us to undertake an ecological conversion and acknowledge that it is not consumerism that will bring us joy, but rather our connectedness with all God’s creations.

As believers, we do not look at the world from without but from within, conscious of the bonds with which God has linked us to all beings. By developing our individual, God-given capacities, an ecological conversion can inspire us to greater creativity and enthusiasm in resolving the world’s problems … (Laudato Si’ – 220)

How can we walk more gently on the earth?

Conversion is a process that begins with small changes – where can you begin to create ecological conversion in your home and community? The most important thing to do is to make a start.

Refuse single use plastics.
Bring your own keep cup instead of using disposable cups.
Don’t waste food.
Be aware of your energy usage.
Only buy clothes when you need them and from sustainable outlets.
Have a clothes swap or donate your clothes to charity, rather than land fill.
Get educated. Learn more about the issues and what you can do to help.

Sacramental Program

As part of the Parish program, St Patrick’s College offers students the opportunity to prepare for their Sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, Confirmation and Eucharist. This program aims to deepen students’ learning about their faith and their connection to God. Please email the Director of Mission if your daughter would like to take part in the Sacramental Program in May.

Ms Athena Costopoulos – acostopoulos@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au

Liturgical Ministry Training in Term One

Altar Servers (Years 7-12)

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (Years 10-12)

Training will commence in Week 5 of Term One. If your daughter is interested in participating in the training sessions, please email the Director of Mission. acostopoulos@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au

TOGETHER WE PRAY

God of all creation,

your spirit dances throughout the earth.

You give drink to the trees,

shade for the birds,

bread for the hungry.

You bring life and make all things holy.

Flood our hearts with your grace,

so we may sow seeds of love,

justice and beauty, and reflect your kingdom here on earth.

We ask this through your Son,

our Lord Jesus Christ,

Amen.