“I am the bread of life, says the Lord;
whoever comes to me will not hunger,
and whoever believes in me will not thirst.”
Over the past few weeks the readings from mass have recognised the presence of Christ in our gifts and our willingness to help and support people. With limited resources, we, as children of God, find different means to survive not necessarily concerned if our diets are balance but rather ensuring that we eat for survival. Many of us have the tendency to look for the benefits in what we eat. Is it wholesome or do I like the flavour for example. We can be really particular about our food as we have many choices. For many people in the world, even within our own community, there are no choices. Someone, somewhere, there is an empty plate, an empty stomach. They just eat to survive. During the loaves and the fishes story, the people find that there is an abundance of food available. However, when we constantly complain about not having enough, we truly miss the opportunity to see Jesus, as the source of life, where we can be renewed. The word of God lasts forever and unlike different supplements, there are no side effects, no expiry date but rather food that lasts a life time.
Vocations Awareness Week
National Vocations Awareness Week began on Sunday. During this week we are reminded to pray for vocations of all those who are baptised. We, the Laity (those baptized Christians who do not profess vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in a religious community or who are not ordained deacons, priests or bishops) hold an important role in the life of the Church. During this week we are encouraged to use the unique gifts God has given us to bring Christ to those we encounter and share in the mission of the Church.
Vocation Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Following you is a bit like jumping in at the deep end.
Help me as I discern how I can best be me.
Be close to me as I search out which way of life is best for me.
Give me your grace to trust in God, your Abba, and to walk the path that draws me closer to you.
You know my deepest desires.
Give me the courage to follow with a ready will and open heart.
Amen
Welcome to our visiting Japanese students from Kogyokusha High School. The partnership we have built over the years has been extremely beneficial for our students. I would like to thank the families who are generously giving their time and place to host our visitors. We look forward to the next 12 days and the experiences provided for both our students and our Japanese visitors.
The Year 7 Debating Team participated in the semi-final of the CSDA Competition on Friday 27th July. It was an outstanding achievement with the team defeating a gallant Gilroy College in the quarter-final but then narrowly missing out in the semi-final against Brigidine College, Randwick. Congratulations to Jose Corcio, Nicholas Papapavlou, Caleb Fayers and Mrs Kennett for the commitment to debating at the College in 2018.
On Wednesday 8th August we will celebrate the Feast day of St Mary of the Southern Cross Mackillop.
“God Will Take Care of Us All.”
We remember St. Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first saint, for her dedication in caring for the poor and destitute. Underpinning all of her activities was her faith in divine Providence. In all the challenges she faced, and the crosses she endured, she never doubted the unceasing protection of ‘our good God’.
Prayer to St. Mary MacKillop
Ever generous God, You inspired Saint Mary MacKillop to live her life faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and constant in bringing hope and encouragement especially to those who were disheartened, lonely and needy. With confidence in your generous providence and through the intercession of Saint Mary MacKillop we ask that you grant our request.
We ask that our faith and hope be fired afresh by the Holy Spirit so that we too, like Mary MacKillop, may live with courage, trust and openness.
Ever generous God hear our prayer.
We ask this through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Solemn Blessing
Through the example of Saint Mary of the Cross, may you learn to recognise God’s will for you and trust in his providence. Amen.
May her life of service awaken in you a deep respect for the poor and a strong will for justice. Amen.
May you share in her courage, see with the eyes of Christian love, and learn from her holy deeds. Amen.
On Monday 6th August, the Y7 – Y11 Academic Awards Ceremony acknowledged students for their academic excellence based on their Semester One Report. Over 450 students were recognised for their achievement. Students were recognised for receiving an: “A” in a course; First in course; Academic Commitment (DSE score of 95% or above) or Academic Improvement (significant growth in tier DSE score from Term 1 to 2). Though a lengthy ceremony, it truly credits the outstanding efforts of all the students and the dedication and commitment by all the staff. Thank you to the parents who attended the ceremony.
The Trial HSC examinations have been progressing well with many students pleased with their responses to the challenging questions of the trial papers. Please continue to pray for all our Year 12 students as they complete these important assessments.
Last Friday the First XIII Rugby League team competed in Rd 2 of the Schoolboy Cup vs Bass High. Supporters included Y7, Y8 & Y9. The game was once again live streamed, therefore, we had the College crest sprayed onto the Oval 1, again. In a tight game, we were able to withstand a late charge by Bass to hold on and win by a converted try.
College Athletics Carnival – Tuesday 21st August
The College Athletics Carnival is on Tuesday 21st August. This is a compulsory school day. Parents are most welcome to attend and see their sons compete throughout the day.
Dominus Lux Mea
Let Your Light Shine
Mr M. Ronchetti
College Principal
