Our College community came together this week to celebrate our Beginning of Year College Mass.

This year’s College theme, “From a Good Beginning, Mercy Flourishes,” recognises the arrival of the Sisters of Mercy in Australia 180 years ago. What began as a small and humble mission has grown into a strong tradition of education and other works focused on compassion, justice, and mercy.

Our 2026 theme also connects with Jesus’ words in the Gospel of John (10:10), that he has come so that we may have life and have it to the full. This is further linked to our College byline: Learn. Care. Flourish. Together, these remind us that our school is a place where students are supported to grow in learning, kindness, and faith.

During the Beginning of Year Mass, students and staff listened to readings from the Bible that encouraged us to live with fairness, generosity, and humility. We were reminded that God calls us to do what is right, to show kindness, and to walk gently with one another.

The Gospel message was about caring for the hungry, the sick, the lonely, and those who may feel forgotten. Jesus teaches that when we look after others, we are showing love to God himself.

In the homily, we learned what it really means to be “great.” Exploring the popular phrase G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time), students were invited to think about how the world often links greatness with success or popularity. Jesus, however, shows us that true greatness is found in helping others, especially those who are vulnerable. It is compassion and service that matter, not success or popularity.

We were very proud of our students, who showed excellent behaviour throughout the celebration. Their respect, participation, and focus during the Mass reflected the strong values of our College community.

Celebrating Mass together is an important part of who we are as a Catholic school. It brings us together as one community, gives us time to pause and reflect, and helps guide us as we begin a new year of learning and growth.

As we start 2026, we do so inspired by the example of the Sisters of Mercy and the message of Jesus; to learn well, care for one another, and help every person in our community to flourish.