Dear parents, friends, staff and students,

Last Sunday was the solemnity of All Saints. In the Catholic tradition, we then follow this with a remembrance of All Souls. In these two groups, we recognise those that the church has stated are in heaven (as a result of their deeds and actions on earth) - the saints - and those that we hope are living for eternity in the presence of God - the souls. The Gospel reading on All Saints day is one of the most well-known and beautiful messages that Jesus gave during His time on earth. It was the gift of the Beatitudes (Matthew 5: 1–12). This was when Jesus told us that Blessed are the gentle, the merciful, the pure of heart and the peacemakers amongst a number of other groups. This was a clear message of what we should aim for in our dealings with others. To be gentle, humble, compassionate, empathetic, honest and have a sense of justice are things that will lead us closer to God. These qualities can be a focus for us in life that will help us to be more like the saints and to live a life of good works and deeds.

Over the next few weeks we will see the final stages of our 2020 HSC students’ time at Mount Carmel. It has certainly been a difficult year for these fine young women and men and they will be celebrating the conclusion of their schooling with the completion of the HSC examinations and their formal next Thursday. This year unfortunately, the formal will only be able to have staff and students present and there are strict conditions on this as a COVID safe gathering. I congratulate all our students on their commitment over the past 13 years of schooling but specifically on what has been a very hard few months. We look forward to welcoming them back in the last week of this term when they can gather with us for a morning tea on the day of the release of their HSC and ATAR results.

On Friday next week (November 13) staff will be undertaking professional development in the areas of student and staff wellbeing. This was a postponed in-service from earlier in the year as was notified in newsletters and letters last term. I remind all parents and caregivers that this is a pupil free day and the College will be closed to ensure staff are able to fully immerse themselves in this Professional Development opportunity.

Once again a reminder that our last Parents and Friend’s meeting for 2020 will be held via zoom on Tuesday November 10 (Week 5). To access this link, please either click Join Zoom Meeting or open Zoom and use the following ID and password:

ID: 94526373031
Password: 522630

Over the past few months, Bishop Brian has been celebrating Sunday Mass and livestreaming it. These Masses each Sunday and can be accessed here.

Mr Steve Lo Cascio