Mission Report – July 16, 2015

Welcome to Term Three. This term is always a hard one to start. The weather is cold and wet and this is especially the case this year. In the last few days we have been warned of snow, hail and frost. But Term Three is marked by the gradual transformation into Spring when once again the sun will have real warmth. The Bible often tells us that be in tune with the rhythms of the seasons is a deep source of human wisdom.

At the commencement of the term break old boy Francis Denton was ordained a priest for the Melbourne Archdiocese. This joyous occasion was made even more significant for St Patrick’s by the College Chamber Choir singing the Mass. The beauty and power of their singing was acknowledged by the many hundreds of people that filled St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne, who joined in loud applause at the end of Mass. Appreciation must be expressed to the students who rehearsed and practiced for many months to achieve their level of excellence. Thanks to Mr Michael Murphy who led them with enthusiasm and knowledge. Thanks also to Ms Penny Kaletsch, Ms Tanya Lewin and Mr Greg Shawcross who supervised the students over the several days in Melbourne as they prepared for the big occasion. We now look forward to Fr Francis Denton joining us later in the year to further celebrate his ordination.

Our staff attended their annual Staff Formation Days at the end of Term Two. One of the presenters, Fr Richard Leonard SJ, was a very popular speaker who offered many insights into the great adventure of being a Catholic school. Fr Richard told funny and profound stories and engaged staff around three key points

• A Catholic school is a community that prays

• A Catholic school is one that embraces the riches of the Catholic Tradition to find the words that express the deepest desires of our heart.

• A Catholic school is one engaged in the conversation between faith and life, faith and culture.

Our staff also appreciated the gentle wisdom of Mr Luke Edwards from Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) who guided us through the imperative of listening with great care. When we listen deeply we acknowledge the dignity of those in the conversation. On the Tuesday night staff were entertained by Motor City Sounds who played the great hits of Motown. Finally, many thanks to the staff of the Novatel in Creswick for their expert support.

As we endure these cold days and wait with hope for the joy and beauty of Spring, we train our hearts in a small way to endure all trials through the hope of the Resurrection and eternal life with our loving God. May this term be filled with joy and hope for all at St Patrick’s College.