Family Mass welcomes the new school year

On Sunday 1 February a record number of SJC families joined students and staff to formally acknowledge the start of the 2009 school year through the celebration of the Eucharist.

The hot summer weather, and a case of standing room only for many of the congregation, did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm that was evident in the spirit of quiet reflection and the joyful singing that accompanied the celebration.

The community welcomed SJC’s new chaplain, Fr Andrew Nee, who brings a special affiliation to the role as he is a Marist Father. Fr Andrew’s innovative and meaningful homily captured everyone’s attention – with people both young and old

attempting to work out the meanings of the SMS text shortcuts he showed. These shortcuts creatively illustrated his theme that we are called to be people who model our lives on the compassion, hope and joy of Jesus Christ.

At the conclusion of the Mass a bucket collection raised $2,800 to contribute to the college’s ongoing support of St Joseph’s School in Mabiri, Bougainville.

St Joseph’s College’s Director of Mission, Mrs Helen Smith, described the large community gathering as a wonderful celebration of the spirit that is so evident in everything that happens at Joeys. “It was an opportunity to come together and reflect on what makes our community so special and to look forward to the year ahead,” she said. “In capturing the theme of the Marist Brothers, who are preparing for their 21st General Chapter in Rome in September 2009, we pray that all of our endeavours this year will in small ways and large contribute to ‘a new heart for a new world.’”

Photos: Michael Filocamo, Year 12.