Beaconsfield News – 14 June 2018

Uniform Shop holiday opening hours

Closed: Monday 2 July until Monday 7 July.

Open: Tuesday 10, Wednesday 11, Thursday 12 and Saturday 14 July

African Gala Dinner

On 26 May, we were invited by Victoria Police to the African Gala Dinner. We had the opportunity to dress in traditional African clothing and enjoy festivities including an African dance performance, singing and delicious food. The night was amazing to say the least, we met Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria and Sally Capp, Melbourne’s first female Lord Mayor.

The night was filled with many laughs and questionable dance moves and introductions that will never be forgotten. To be an African Australian means to uphold the values and customs of Australia whilst proudly displaying the traditions of Africa in any opportunity we come across. To be a part of an event that brought people from different parts of a continent together instilled a strong sense of pride in us as African Australians living in Victoria. It was great to see the appreciation and respect of other cultures.

We are immensely grateful to Victoria Police and the College to be able take part in an event that represents a piece of our motherland which we hold dear to hearts. We hope that more opportunities like this will arise in the future and that students will take advantage of them.

Dahlia Stanley, Ruth Gildo and Adeline Chiwetu

Religious Education News

‘I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except though me.’ (John 14:6)

Many of our staff and students have been deeply affected by the passing of Nathan Forsyth. Prayers were offered across the College in various contexts following his passing. It was moving to witness the high esteem in which he was held, and the sincere prayers that were offered for the repose of his soul and for his family and friends. The motto of our College is often used at funeral rituals. In this narrative, the writer of John shows Jesus preparing his friends for his death. ‘In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.’ Jesus was looking at his friends in front of him as he said these words – in other words, belief in Jesus means God dwells in the here and now within believers. The indwelling of God in the here and now brings comfort and hope. It is this comfort of God’s presence that was witnessed this week in groups of students and staff who gathered to honour Nathan and pray for his family and friends in various contexts. We continue to offer our prayers and thoughts at this challenging time. 

Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace, Amen.

Year 11 Retreat: 

Preparations are under way for our Year 11 Retreat program on the final three days of term two. The retreats launch the leadership program for Year 11’s as they discern their leadership roles for Year 12. The retreat offers the opportunity for students to reflect on their lives, to come together as a House, to be supported in building more effective communication skills, and to celebrate their skills and talents. We look forward to hearing positive stories of the retreat.

House Masses: 

Next Friday our Houses will celebrate Mass in six of our local Parishes. The Houses come together from across the three Campuses to recognise the role of parishes in school life. We would not be here without our parishes and celebrating Mass in our ‘local parish’ – our House, enables students and staff to touch base with our purpose as a Catholic school.