Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent which is the season where we prepare for the events of Holy Week and the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus. Just as we prepare for the birth of Christ at the end of the year, we are now in preparation for the celebrations and memorials that we experience 40 days after Ash Wednesday with the entry of Jesus to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. At our whole school liturgy we reflected on the significance of this time and how we are called to reflect on our own lives, particularly in terms of personal sacrifice and the contribution that we can each make to improve the lives of others. This year’s Project Compassion Launch, which coincided with our Liturgy, calls us to “Go further together”, a plea for supporting the empowerment of communities in countries such as the Philippines, Malawi and Samoa. To help shape a better future for individuals, families and communities. 

This Sunday’s Gospel, Mark 1:12-15 reflects on Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness, the temptations of Satan and the guidance and support that he received from Angels.  Upon his return to Galilee, following the arrest of John, Jesus proclaimed the Good News from God. ‘The time has come’ he said ‘and the kingdom of God is close at hand. Repent, and believe the Good News.’ As with our own Lenten experience, we too are challenged by a wide range of temptations, and are asked to repent, live out the Good News and take actions that will support those in need. We can do this through the support of our local parishes during this important time, through our contributions to Project Compassion and by our interactions with those we encounter on a daily basis.

Further to our Liturgical celebration, Thursday evening saw our annual Year 7 "Meet and Greet" night. This was an opportunity for students, families and staff to meet and put some faces to names. Presentations by Year 7 Pastoral Advisors, a video message from Mr Withnall and some words from our College Leadership team were able to provide some valuable insights into what Year 7 at Mount Carmel has looked like for the first three weeks of the year and what is expected to be encountered over the coming weeks and months. The presentations were followed by some light refreshments, which allowed all members of our community to spend some time getting to know one another. I thank all students, families and staff for their attendance and participation in the evening, which is another example of our Community building focus for 2024.

As Mr Lo Cascio mentioned last week, there are a couple of important dates coming up. These are:

• Thursday 22 February, College Commencement Mass 9.15am; Parent's and Carer's invited.
• Tuesday 27 February, we will be holding the Parents and Friend’s AGM. This will commence at 7pm in room I3 (just off the car park).
• Pupil Free/Staff Development Day - Friday 1 March 
• Year 7 2025 Info Night - Wednesday 6 March at 6.15pm.

Finally, earlier this week a new footpath and entry was completed on the St. Andrew’s Road side of the main entry gate to the College. This will allow those accessing the grounds by foot from St. Andrew’s Road a much safer passage onto the property than was previously available. Thanks to all students, families and staff for their cooperation with what has been a very positive and smooth start to our new year.