This week the Australian Catholic Church celebrated the Feast Day of Blessed Mary MacKillop, Australia’s First Saint. Mary MacKillop was a strong independent woman who worked for the marginalised in rural communities, recognising that education was the gift to escape poverty and to fight for a more just and fair world. MacKillop, like our Sisters of Mercy, was a pioneer and a leader, someone who had compassion for others regardless of race or situation.

Having grown up in the slums of Fitzroy, MacKillop was drawn to education and the fire within was ignited as she witnessed the injustice and equity she saw on her daily basis. MacKillop was invited to teach for a rural family in Penola, South Australia, it is here where she witnessed the poverty and discrimination of rural Australia and her passion to provide to the poor was cemented. Galvanised by her belief in the value of education as the foundation for a fulfilling life, Mary’s motto was ‘never see a need without doing something about it’.

A hundred and fifty years later, we as people, have much to learn from Mary MacKillop. She was a faith filled woman who was determined to bring God’s Kingdom to life in the here and now. She was not willing to watch injustice, she had a deep desire to respond to inequity, she was not going to let her gender be a reason for discrimination, but rather she stood tall, strong and fiercely articulate. I have admired MacKillop’s strength to challenge the Church authorities for her to fulfill her vocation to establish Australia’s First Religious Women who had their own central governance, led by the women in the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart.

MacKillop’s humility can be seen in how she quietly responded to the needs of her own family and those of her family structure. She recognised the fragility and complexity of family. A woman who recognised that family can be a strength and a challenge. She made no apologies for her families short comings, rather she interpreted as a strength that allowed others to take on leadership. We can learn much from her ability to work and with her family even in times of despair, disappointment and frustration.

Mary MacKillop’s attitude was always of forgiveness and respect. Her many letters are evidence of her vision, courage and leadership.

Next week, Monday 14 August, College staff will be involved in our own Faith formation Day led by Sharon Lehtonen, Assistant Principal Catholic Identity. Our theme for the day is Living with Mercy. A number of workshops will be led by our staff in faith, learning and wellbeing.

Last week Trish Rowe finished her time at the College after 40 years of service. Trish was a passionate teacher of English, Literature and History. Many parents would remember Trish from their time at Sacred Heart. An articulate, intelligent and insightful woman Trish has left a strong mark on her community. We wish Trish well in her retirement and are grateful for her commitment to the learning and growth of our community.

Kristiana Withers has completed her service at the College last week. Kristiana has passionately taught French and Music. A regular member of our staff choir, Kristiana will be missed for her gentleness and wit. We wish her well as she pursues study and travel.

This we welcomed Lucas Groud, who will work alongside our Languages Team. Lucas has recently moved to Ballarat after having worked at Camberwell Primary School. A native French Teacher, Lucas will bring new insights and energy to our dynamic Languages Team.

Last week l attended the DAV debating which continues to be held online. I was so impressed to watch our Senior Teams navigate this space with its limitations and frustrations. Our students were reflective and determined.

With every blessing