College Community
This term has been filled with opportunities for our students to deepen their faith and strengthen their sense of community. From the vibrant Connecting Catholic Coasties gathering at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, to exploring future pathways at the Faith into the Future Vocations Fair, and participating in the Catholic Mission Mass, our students have embraced experiences that inspire reflection, service, and spiritual growth. These events remind us of the importance of living our faith through action and connection, and we thank all staff and students who contributed to making these moments so meaningful.
Connecting Catholic Coasties
In Week 5, students gathered at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral in Waitara for the final Connecting Catholic Coasties event of the year, marking the last Shrine for the Broken Bay Jubilee Year. Many students were excited to complete their Pilgrim Passport as part of this special occasion. The afternoon began with food, games, and icebreakers, creating a lively atmosphere before moving into the Cathedral to hear inspiring speakers share about the true meaning of Christmas. Students then engaged in a series of prayer stations around the Cathedral, offering a chance for reflection and spiritual growth. It was a joyful way to celebrate the year’s journey and conclude the Connecting Catholic Coasties program. A big thank you to Sr Josie and Mrs. Tenev for their support and presence at this memorable event.
Faith into the Future Vocations Fair
Students also had the opportunity to attend the Faith into the Future Vocations Fair at St Agatha’s Hall in Pennant Hills. This event aimed to inspire young people by introducing them to diverse paths within the Church and beyond, including those who have chosen religious life. Throughout the day, students explored interactive stalls, listened to engaging speakers, and connected with peers from across the Broken Bay Diocese. Representatives included the Jesuits, Mary Immaculata, Vocations Broken Bay, Youth Mission Team, Campion College, and Catholic Chaplains from various NSW universities. Congratulations to Charlotte D (Year 12) for winning first prize in the end-of-day Kahoot competition! Special thanks to Sr Josie for her inspiring stall on the Augustinian Sisters of Our Lady of Consolation, and to Mrs Naomi Hepplewhite and Mrs. Tenev for accompanying and supporting our students.
Catholic Mission Mass
On Thursday 16th October Sister Josie and Mrs. Tenev had the opportunity to attend the Catholic Mission Mass with the College Captains Zara Hepplewhite, Hailey Debono, Zali McCulkin and Cooper Ormrod who proudly represented St. Brigid’s as part of the senior student leadership team. Each Primary and Secondary school in the Broken Bay Diocese had representatives that attended Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral at Waitara to celebrate the work of Catholic Mission in particularly World Mission Month. Mission Month in October is dedicated to the life-giving work of missionaries around the world. Catholic Mission and the broader Catholic community come together to celebrate the World Mission Appeal, guided by the theme “Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples”. Together, we have the power to create change and build a more just world for people everywhere. By supporting missionaries in their work, we can create life-changing opportunities for countless children, families, and communities worldwide.
As the season of advent approaches we encourage our students, staff, and families to embody this spirit of service by supporting local charities through food drives such as the upcoming Christmas hampers, clothing donations, and volunteer efforts. As well as through education by raising awareness about the root causes of poverty which helps us understand the challenges many face.
Warm regards,
Damien Tomsett
Assistant Principal – Evangelisation & Catechesis
