The readings from Mass last week and this week, speak about the concept of Wisdom. In early translations of the Christian bible, this concept was often referred to as Sophos (from a Greek origin). The idea of sophos, or wisdom, was not a simple translation for the notion of intelligence or academic ability but was a far greater concept built around having knowledge but also being able to use it in a just and appropriate way. Our bible often relates Wisdom as a direct relationship to the nature of God. The Gospel of John begins with the phrase: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”. Many early translations of this use ‘Sophos’ rather than ‘word’. When we consider this is context, God is wisdom. When we act with knowledge, justice, appropriateness and love, we are acting in the name of God. It is an opportunity to share God with those around us when we share with wisdom.

On Friday morning, we held our High Achievers’ Ceremony where we recognised the outstanding results of our HSC class of 2019. As is an important part of our tradition, our students who achieved ATARs over 90 along with their parents and any achievers of special note, are invited back to celebrate with our whole College community. This year, we were joined by the Consul of Indonesia along with the President of the Australia Indonesia Association and the Head of School Improvement from the Catholic Education Office. Shequina Peirera was named as the student placed first in NSW in the Indonesian Beginner’s course and received a special award for this honour. Once again, our high achieving students were invited to speak with our current Year 12 students at an assembly prior to the whole College ceremony. Their valuable insights into the HSC are an important learning for our current students. I congratulate them and thank them and their parents for returning to Mount Carmel to share their wisdom.

We also congratulated and recognised the Year 10 students who have been named as House Leaders for 2020. These students have begun their leadership journey and will be called on to assist with numerous events and activities around the College. I congratulate them and thank them in advance for their commitment and effort.

 Last Wednesday, we held our Year 7 Meet and Greet evening. This was a valuable opportunity for our newest students and parents to meet their Pastoral Advisors and hear a number of important messages around class structure and processes at Mount Carmel. Once again I thank the parents, students and the numerous staff who attended in order to build vital relationships between families and the College. 

A reminder that P&F meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month during term times at 7pm in room I3. All parents are warmly invited to these meetings. The next will be held on March 10 and will begin with the AGM.   

Once again, advance warning that our Year 7, 2021 Information evening will be held in week 6, Monday March 2 at the College in the Champagnat Centre. This meeting will begin at 7pm. Please spread the word to anyone who may be considering enrolling in Year 7 at Mount Carmel for 2021.

Ite in Veritate

Mr Steve Lo Cascio