Today’s Gospel, from John 17:20–26, gives us a privileged glimpse into the very heart of Jesus: His final prayer before facing the Cross. And what does He pray for?

He prays for you.

“I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word.” Jesus sees beyond the disciples in front of Him. He sees across centuries of time and space… and He sees you, students of Chisholm, in your final year, preparing to leave the comfort and structure of school life and step into a new and exciting chapter.

What does He pray for?

Unity. “That they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you.”

Jesus’ dream for us is that we would live in communion, not just tolerance or politeness, but deep, authentic unity. That we would learn to love as He loves. As you prepare to graduate, reflect on the relationships you’ve formed here, the friends you’ve walked with, the teachers who’ve guided you, the moments you’ve shared. These aren’t just memories, they’re the foundations of a life built on love and connection.

In a world that often divides by opinion, by status, by fear, Jesus calls you to be a force of unity. To build bridges, not walls. To be people of peace. And that takes courage.

Love. Jesus prays: “That the love with which you loved me may be in them.”

This isn’t a sentimental love. It’s not shallow or fleeting. It’s the deep, self-giving love that took Jesus to the Cross. It’s the love that forgives, that serves, that sacrifices. It’s the kind of love our world desperately needs and the kind of love we believe you are capable of offering.

Each of you has the power to make someone feel seen. To make a difference in someone’s day or even someone’s life through small, real acts of love.

Mission. Finally, Jesus prays that the world may come to know God through you. That’s an incredible responsibility and an even greater privilege.

Your education here at Chisholm has not just been about academic excellence but about forming you as people of faith, of conscience and of action. As you leave these gates, you are sent out not just as graduates but as witnesses. 

So, Year 12s:

As you prepare for the final chapter at our College, hold onto this prayer of Jesus. Remember that He sees you. That He believes in you. That He is with you.

Be people of unity. Be people of love. Be people of mission.

And may the world come to know the love of God through the way you live your life.  

Fr Ziggy Wloczek
College Chaplain