In the Gospel this week (Mark 8:27 – 35) Jesus asks the question of the disciples; ‘who are people saying I am?”. In response, Peter uses the term ‘Christos’ for the first time since chapter 1. The use of the term Christos (Christ or Messiah) foreshadows Jesus as the chosen one and therefore makes a clear link to Him as the Son of God. In the following sections of St Mark’s gospel (the Transfiguration), this link becomes increasingly clear and we are led to an understanding of the divine nature of Jesus. Our focus for this gospel is to consider the question as to who we think Jesus is and how this might be answered by the link to His divinity. Our understanding and acceptance that Jesus is God will help us to accept His guidance and role modelling for how our lives might be lived. This is an opportunity to reflect in our own hearts and make the link. 

As you would all be aware, earlier this week I sent a letter informing you of our difficult news of the arrest of a CeDOW employee who has worked at Mount Carmel. Since then, I have tried to be available to students and staff where needed. I can once again confirm that we have offered extra support and counselling to both students and staff and will continue to do this where necessary. As previously stated, I encourage you to let us know if there are any concerns or if there are any supports that you feel you child may need moving forward. Please communicate with the College or Catholic Education in Wollongong where appropriate.

On Tuesday our 2025 Captains and Vice Captains travelled to Wollongong for a Mass and lunch with 

Bishop Brian. The bishop hosts this each year as a thank you to the students for their leadership within our schools. The students shared their journey with those from other schools and enjoyed the gathering immensely. Thank you to Mr Lozelle who attended the lunch with us.

On Wednesday evening our Year 12 students and parents had the opportunity to meet for the last time in their schooling for the parent/teacher/student meetings. These were held on the ground level of the STEM building and gave parents another opportunity to view the new facilities. The meetings are a final chance to provide feedback to students on how they might improve in their final weeks. A number have told me that they have been offered early entry to universities but are still keen to show what they are capable of and aim high. I have encouraged them to continue working until their final exams so that they can achieve their best. Thank you to the parents and staff who attended the evening to provide guidance and opportunities for excellence.

As stated last week, we have been advised that our canteen renovations will begin by the end of week 9 (next week). Whilst this canteen will be a significant internal refurbishment, it is anticipated that it will only take around four weeks (two of which will be the holidays). This will mean there will be a reduced offering from the canteen during this time and we will relocate it temporarily across the passageway into the old science building. They will serve the students from a window. We will advise more details around this in the coming weeks. 

From the start of next term, we are considering changing our newsletters from weekly to fortnightly and increasing our social media presence. I had previously mentioned this in newsletters a few weeks back, I ask if any parent has a view on this, please contact the front office either via email or phone to let us know.