At the Family Mass at St. Mary’s Church Toukley, we celebrated the fifth Sunday of Easter. The Gospel reading according to John provided a simple but important message “I give you a new commandment: love one another; just as I have loved you, you also must love one another. By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples”. That love was evident at the Family Mass with the community gathering and sharing the common message of the unconditional love of Jesus. The students, teachers and families that attended were witness to this faith and love through their involvement and interaction during Mass. It was great to see the members of the parish community students of both St. Brigid’s and St. Mary’s come together to celebrate Mass with Fr. Baby and the Augustinian Sisters Josefa and Jennifer.
Love can be seen in many ways at St. Brigid’s and beyond the School Community.
During Lent this year students had the opportunity to donate to Caritas Australia annual fundraising program, Project Compassion. Caritas is the Catholic Church’s international aid and development agency that works with the most marginalised communities in Australia and overseas, to confront the challenges of poverty. Caritas Australia’s programs address critical challenges and work alongside vulnerable communities in health, education, gender equality, food security, water access, climate justice, disability inclusion, poverty alleviation, sustainable agriculture, and emergency relief. The students did a tremendous job in raising a significant amount of money to help people in poverty and show their love and support for people in need.
It was great to see students, teachers and families of the College join the community in their love and appreciation of the ANZACS at the Doyalson Wyee RSL dawn service. Lilly McFadden and Elly Abbott had the honour of opening the ceremony with a heartfelt speech about ANZAC Day, reflecting on its meaning, the sacrifices made, and the gratitude we owe to those who have given so much. Their words touched on the profound losses and the enduring spirit of reflection and remembrance.
The Mother’s Day morning tea at St. Brigid’s’ provided an opportunity for the College and the students to celebrate the importance of mothers who nurture, love and care for their children. This was an opportunity for the children to show their appreciation for their mum by sharing a special moment during a Liturgy with Sister Josefa. Thank you to the staff and students who were committed to making this a special day for the mums.
Finally, love is shared beyond our College community through the many volunteers that are committed to various organisations that assist others in need. Tonight, Lyndall the Business Manager and I had the pleasure to attend the Lions Club of Gwandalan Annual Donations Dinner. We had the opportunity to meet the incredible volunteers that dedicate their time to raise a significant amount of money to assist organisations in the community to make a difference and a positive influence. The various projects that the Lions Club were donating money for was amazing, these organisations showed gratitude to the dedicated volunteers who were full of love and joy. It was a great to see St. Brigid’s students and their family’s part of the various volunteer organisations that make a difference in our community. Without the commitment and assistance of volunteer organisations like the Lions Club many projects would not be possible. We thank the Lions Club for the significant money donation which will help the College with purchasing awards for our students.
Mr Damien Tomsett
Assistant Principal Student Achievement
