Term 4 is a short but busy one, filled with important and symbolic moments, events, and celebrations. Soon we will farewell our Year 12s, many of whom have been with us for many years. While Term 4 marks the end of our academic year, it also leads us into a new beginning for the Church as we approach Advent – a time of waiting and recognising the mystery of God’s presence in our lives.

People of many faiths within our community have recently marked special celebrations, including Mawlid al-Nabi, the Muslim celebration of the Prophet Mohammad’s birth; Diwali, the Hindu festival of light; and Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the Jewish new year and days of forgiveness.

If you find a quiet moment this week, you might like to pause and reflect in prayer:

What are you thankful for today?
What are you hopeful for this term?
Who or what would you like to pray for today?

Loving God,
In life’s ups and downs, give us patience, kindness, and courage in all we do.

Amen.

This week we also celebrate St Teresa of Avila Day (October 15). While we often get caught up in healthy House competition and points, it’s good to pause and remember what our Houses truly represent. St Teresa of Avila, the namesake of Avila House, was a 16th-century Spanish Carmelite nun who, despite ill health, inspired renewal within her community through prayer and service. A gifted writer (and the patron saint of writers), her book The Interior Castle remains one of the great works of Christian spirituality. Her practical faith and courage inspired Blessed Edmund Rice in his own mission.

Edmund Rice was inspired by St Teresa of Avila

In that same spirit, we wrapped up the last term with our Immersion Park Walk, supporting communities from past and future Philippines Immersions. It was a meaningful way to live out our values of faith and compassion – walking together in solidarity and hope.

Here’s to a fantastic Term 4 and all that is to come. A reminder that our Community Masses continue each Wednesday morning at 8am in the Senior Campus Chapel, and additionally on the first Friday of each month in the Junior Campus Chapel – all students, families, and staff are warmly invited to join.

Mr Anthony Callisto
Director of Identity and Mission