Once again, in last Sunday’s Gospel (Matthew 13: 44-52), Jesus speaks in parables. The parables this week revolve around finding a treasure and being determined enough to put all your effort toward gaining it. The treasures that are named are representative of the Kingdom of Heaven. Modern teachings ask us to reflect on the Kingdom not as something far away or in the future, but as a goal for each of us in the here and now. The Kingdom of God is something that we can strive to build around us each and every day by the actions and behaviours we show to those around us. The challenge posed in this parable asks us to consider how much we would sacrifice to gain this exceptional treasure. Each of us has an extraordinary opportunity and responsibility to help build the Kingdom and reflect Jesus’ love to those around us.

We have unfortunately not had many opportunities over the past few months for our students to shine in competition against other schools. This week saw our first interschool competition since before the COVID lockdowns  through the Year 7 & 8 MISA debates. This is hopefully the first of a number MISA debates that will occur over the next few months. The unique thing about these debates is that they were held remotely via the internet. A big congratulations to our participating students and a thank you to the Mount Carmel organiser, Ms Cleuskins. 

Last week I included a link in the newsletter for parents to provide feedback to the College with regard to our Semester 1 reports and Parent/Teacher/Student meetings. Thank you to the parents who have given this feedback. There is still an opportunity for you to have your say on these by completing the survey through the link here. I encourage you to complete the survey if you have not yet had the chance.

In Week 5 of this term (beginning August 17), our HSC students will begin their Trial exams. This year these are two weeks later than normal. As a College community we are acutely aware of the impacts that COVID has had particularly on our Year 12 students. They have so far missed out on their final Cross Country, their final Athletics Carnival as well as their final Champagnat and OLMC Days just to name a few. I ask all of our community to keep these fine young men and women in their prayers especially over the next three weeks as they prepare for their Trial HSC exams. We certainly wish them the best and I am sure those who have maintained a strong work ethic will be rewarded for their efforts.

Whilst public masses have been resumed over the last few weeks, they still have restricted numbers. Bishop Brian Mascord has continued the YouTube channel where the faithful can watch him celebrate mass with us, and on our behalf. The link to this mass is here. Please log into this site each weekend and join Bishop Brian online for the celebration of the Eucharist.

Mr Steve Lo Cascio