Ash Wednesday Liturgy - 'Be the Change'

Students, staff and Brothers at St Joseph’s College celebrated the start of Lent with an Ash Wednesday Liturgy.

The ashes, which were distributed by Year 12 Acolytes, were made by burning intercessions written by students and staff. Director of Mission, Mrs Helen Smith, said the ashes served as a reminder of the areas of our lives that are in need of healing, renewal and hope.

“The smudge mark made by the ashes is a visible reminder of the commitment we enter into during Lent and of the forgiveness and strength which is the gift of Jesus Christ to each of us," she said.

“During the season of Lent we are challenged to pray a little more, go without a little more and give a little more to those in need.”

The Liturgy also marked the start of the college’s Lenten appeal in support of Marist Asia Pacific (MAPS). All funds raised will go directly to the work of the Marist communities in needy areas of the Asia Pacific region, including the college’s solidarity partner, St Joseph’s, Mabiri, in Bougainville.

Mrs Smith said the college hopes to raise over $10,000 over the next four weeks, as boys and staff ‘go without’ during Lent and donate their spending money to the appeal instead.

“This is an opportunity to put our faith into action and ‘be the change’ we want to see in the world.”