Feast of the Sacred Heart

This week, our College community came together to celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart.

The Sacred Heart is a symbol of Jesus' deep and generous love for all people; a love that is especially present for those who are hurting, left out, or struggling. It's a reminder that God’s love is not distant or abstract, but real, personal, and always reaching out.

Our liturgy centred on the parable of the lost sheep, where Jesus reveals the heart of God as a Good Shepherd who notices when someone is missing, seeks them out, and rejoices when they are found. It’s a powerful image of mercy and compassion: a love that never gives up, never excludes, and always welcomes home.

We heard, too, from the prophet Ezekiel, who speaks of a God who binds up the injured and strengthens the weak. St Paul reminded us that “hope does not disappoint,” because the love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

This celebration was also an opportunity to reflect on how we live out the Sacred Heart in our school. In a Catholic and Mercy context, human flourishing is about becoming fully alive through love, justice, faith, and service. It means having the courage to stand up for what’s right, the compassion to care for those in need, and the hospitality to ensure everyone feels they belong.

We thank the many students and staff who prepared and led the liturgy, and all who took part with reverence and heart. We offer our heartfelt thanks to our College Chaplains, Fr John, Fr Declan, Fr Wahid, and Fr Vincent, for leading us in prayer and helping us encounter the depth of God’s love through the Sacred Heart. We also warmly thank Sr Madeline Duckett RSM for her presence and witness and extend our gratitude to the staff and students from Our Lady of the Rosary and St Brigid's Primary Schools for joining us in this special celebration. Their presence enriched our community and reminded us of the shared mission of love of God and neighbour that we carry.

May this celebration remind us that each of us is known and loved by God. Let’s carry that love into our friendships, our learning, and the way we look after each other each day.