Religious Education

Year 9 Excursion to St Patrick’s Cathedral and the Mary MacKillop Walking Tour

On Friday 20 June, our Year 9 students took part in a meaningful Religious Education excursion exploring the history and heritage of the Catholic Church in Australia. The day was divided into several enriching experiences.

The students participated in a guided tour of St Patrick’s Cathedral, led by Mr Smith, who shared his deep knowledge of the Cathedral’s rich history. As 2025 is a Jubilee Year, with Pope Francis declaring the theme Pilgrims of Hope, the Cathedral holds special significance as one of the designated Pilgrim Places in the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne.

The Year 9s also participated in a Mary MacKillop Walking Tour, visiting four key sites around East Melbourne that are significant to the life and legacy of St Mary MacKillop of the Cross. This experience gave students valuable insight into her inspiring journey and lasting impact on Catholic education and social justice in Australia.

A special highlight of the day was the entire year level gathering to celebrate Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral. For many students, it was a peaceful moment of reflection and prayer, offering a quiet space away from the busy city atmosphere.

This excursion offered a powerful opportunity for students to connect with their faith and deepen their understanding of Australia’s Catholic heritage.

ANGELINA PELUSO
Learning Leader - Religious Education

Issue 10: 6 August 2025

Faith in Action: A Season of Reflection and Purpose

In recent weeks, our Year 10 and Year 11 students have stepped beyond the classroom to engage deeply with what it means to live out their values through action, service, and purpose.

The Year 10 Retreat, held at the historic Scots’ Church in the heart of Melbourne, offered students a chance to reflect on how their Christian values can shape their future careers and personal endeavours. A highlight of the day was a powerful address by Kate Kennedy AO, a tireless advocate against modern slavery. Her message challenged students to consider how justice, dignity and compassion must inform the way we live and work in the world. Students left with a renewed sense of responsibility to use their gifts not only for success, but for the good of others.

Our Year 11 cohort gathered at Melbourne University’s Newman College for a retreat centred on Servant Leadership. The experience invited students to reflect on Servant Leadership ... leadership as service—not status. The retreat included a thought-provoking panel featuring Sr Brigid Arthur AO, advocate for asylum seekers, and Judy Ryan OAM, who leads efforts for medically supervised drug support services.

As one student reflected:
"I learnt I don’t have to be perfect to be a leader. Being vulnerable is part of being human—and part of being strong."

Another shared:
"Servant leadership doesn’t require a title—just compassion and kindness from within."

Both retreats reminded us that leadership and faith go hand in hand when rooted in love, justice and humility. Our students return inspired—not just to lead, but to serve.

REGINA HOOPER
Liturgy and Retreat Leader

Issue 10: 6 August 2025