2023, Term 4, Edition 17 - Chaplain

Beginnings and Endings

Even amidst the tiredness of the end of the year, we have the excitement of new beginnings. That is particularly true for our 2023 Year 11s, now our Year 12s. It was a joy to be on the Year 12 Retreat with them at Portsea, and to share in a Chapel service with them. We explored the notion of choosing to mature and taking the decision to lead. The reflection continued as we walked up Cape Schank to the lighthouse, stopping to appreciate and enjoy the ocean views and to consider the people that we are, and who we hope to be.

Sharing the Christmas Spirit

A huge thank you to the many families who so thoughtfully and generously donated gifts and items for our Christmas appeals. We are still doing the final tally, but we have been overwhelmed with the beautiful toys, food and various donations that have been given.

Donations from across the school will be donated to:

The Salvation Army
Backpacks 4 Vic Kids
Pets of the Homeless

It is a beautiful sight to witness the Chapel overflowing with gifts. Sincere thanks to all who donated and helped to process these gifts.

Sharing the Christmas Story

It was wonderful as a school community to join together to celebrate the Christmas story. Year 5 students worked extremely hard with Mrs Grant to put on their fantastic performance of ‘Superstar’ complete with songs from each class. We were so proud of their work over this term to bring it all together.

Senior School students shared in the Senior School Christmas Chapel, reflecting on ‘the gifts we bring’. In this season of Christmas, it is all too easy to focus on the gifts that we are purchasing for others, or the gifts they will give us. It does not take children long to figure out that they can ask for gifts for Christmas. My son has been asking me since shortly after his birthday in June! Yet it is also a precious reminder that the true gifts of this season cannot be bought. The gift of the baby Jesus in a manger all those years ago is a reminder to us all of the importance of hope, joy, peace and love in all of our lives. These universal gifts are the ones that sustain and strengthen throughout the entire year.