From the Principal's Desk
Please see Father Mark's letter, which was published in the parish bulletin last weekend.
My dear parishioners of Warrawong, Berkeley and Port Kembla,
As I consider the enormous task which Bishop Brian Mascord has given me I am reminded of the words from St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, “I came amongst you in weakness and in fear and great trembling” (1 Cor 2,3) not because I’m expecting trouble but because the task is so hopelessly greater than what one priest alone can do. But then again, I am reassured by another scripture verse where “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Phil 4,13) A new parish priest will inevitably mean some change, and change can sometimes cause a sense of uncertainty or even anxiety. I am writing these words to you before I arrive to reassure you all that I come as one who will listen and hear your story. I want to know you and your circumstances as much as possible.
Shortly after I commence my new role on 19 August 2025 I aim to organise a separate meeting outside of mass with each of the parish communities, not so much to cast my vision for the parishes, but to get to know you (or in the case of Port Kembla, to know you more deeply) and to allow you to know me somewhat better. Thankfully, I am not a total stranger to either of the three parish communities, but a new role always brings with it new perspectives. Out of sheer practical necessity, the only thing that will change very early will be the weekday mass and confession schedule. This will simply allow for mass in each parish while allowing for the two school communities to participate in a parish mass nearby on a regular basis. This will permit me to undertake the many funerals we have in our area and the many additional liturgical demands made upon priests in their ministry. All other changes will happen as a result of the dialogue with the various communities as we begin this new chapter together. To this end, I ask you all to pray fervently for me, that I may be for you, all that the Lord in his goodness and mercy is calling me to be.
In Christ Jesus,
Father Mark
Our school calendar is filled with many learning opportunities this term. Please keep an eye on Compass, the Parent Calendar, and other communication platforms for information on these events.
Safety around our School
Student safety is paramount at all times in our school, and I remind parents and family members who collect children from school to observe the parking restrictions in place. Please observe all speed limits in place around the school. Parents and caregivers are asked to use the assigned school crossing if parking on the opposite side of the road. The local council enforces parking restrictions and safe practices around our school. Thank you for keeping our children safe.
Leadership Retreats
Each year, school leaders attend School Leadership Retreats. This year’s retreats are titled "Pilgrims of Hope" and will be facilitated by the Spiritual Formation team.During the retreat, there will be opportunities to explore the understanding and experience of hope within our Catholic context, reflecting on our lives as a pilgrim through prayer and shared conversations, and considering how hope is given expression in our lives.
Our school leaders will be attending these retreats on the following days:
Principals Retreat: Monday 15 and Tuesday 16 September - Mrs Davidson
Assistant Principals: Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 August - Mr Murphy