Today marks the peak of Catholic Education Week and what a truly inspiring week it’s been.
This morning, St Patrick’s Cathedral was filled to overflowing for the annual Mass for schools, as over 2000 students and staff joined Archbishop Peter to celebrate the feast of St Patrick and to witness the unveiling of a new icon – the first painted image of the saint to be displayed in the cathedral.
On Wednesday evening, I hosted our annual dinner for School Advisory Council chairs at Catholic Leadership Centre. It was an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate Working Together in Mission with dedicated parents to nurture the minds, hearts, hands and souls of our young people.
In a joy-filled evening, our chairs viewed this year’s outstanding Creative Arts Exhibition showcasing the extraordinary talents of our students from Foundation to Year 12. We were blessed with the company of newly ordained Auxiliary Bishop, the Most Rev Thinh Nguyen, as our keynote speaker.
Monday was the occasion of the St Patrick’s Day Mass, followed by Archbishop Peter’s illuminating Patrick Oration. And this time last week, we welcomed our new teachers to MACS schools, including new graduates and those who’ve answered their calling to teaching after careers in different fields.
There are many reasons to celebrate our Catholic faith and the enduring impact of a MACS education; these are reflected in Forming Hearts: MACS Faith Formation Framework. Catholic Education Week gives us the opportunity to pause, reflect and experience the joy of being part of MACS and being leaders in Catholic education.
A final word: this year’s Creative Arts Exhibition is breaking attendance records. If you’ve not had the opportunity to view the exhibition, be quick – it’s open until 4.00 pm tomorrow.
School Bulletin survey
We have been piloting a fortnightly frequency for School Bulletin in Term 1 and we’re keen to understand if it’s working for you. Please respond to this short two-question survey by Thursday 27 March to indicate your preference and provide any feedback.
In this edition
This year marks the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed, when the early Church proclaimed Christ. Dr Adrian Lacey, Education Officer, Religious Education, reflects on how we can accompany our staff, students and families in fostering personal relationships with Jesus.
When sharing news of achievement, innovation and/or good practice on your school’s social media accounts, please remember to tag Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools. Sharing your stories builds collegiality and enriches our sense of being a Catholic education community.
Dr Edward Simons
Executive Director