As we entered the season of Lent, our College community came together to mark Ash Wednesday in a meaningful and prayerful way. We were privileged to celebrate an Ashes Liturgy within our House groups, each of which was very well led by our House Leaders and students from the Chisholm Ministers team. Their dedication and reverence helped create a truly reflective atmosphere for all who participated.

During the Liturgy, we were reminded of the three pillars that guide us as a Catholic community throughout the Lenten season: prayer, fasting and almsgiving. These practices call us to deepen our relationship with God, exercise self-discipline and reach out in solidarity to those in need. It was a powerful reminder of who we are called to be, not just during Lent but in our everyday lives.

As part of our commitment to almsgiving, Pastoral Care Groups were encouraged to consider ways to fundraise in support of Project Compassion, Caritas Australia’s annual Lenten appeal that raises vital funds for communities around the world. Individual students were also encouraged to make a personal sacrifice by going without a snack or a drink and to donate that money directly to Project Compassion. These small acts of generosity, multiplied across our school community, can make a real and lasting difference in the lives of others.

Our fundraising efforts actually began the day before, on Shrove Tuesday, with a wonderful pancake sale that proved to be a tremendous success. Students and staff turned out in great numbers, and many enjoyed their pancakes knowing that each bite was contributing to something far greater than themselves. It was a joyful and community-spirited start to what we hope will be a generous and reflective Lenten journey for us all.

Deacon Aaron Peters
Deputy Principal – Mission