14 SEP 2023 Director of Faith and Community

Springtime blessings to All,

It is so nice to have some warmer weather and longer days after the cold winter we have endured. Spring is upon us, this means we can experience God’s creation and beauty in every flower, insect and new growth we see.

Not only is it Spring, but it is also the Season of Creation, an annual occurrence that runs from September 1 to October 4. This year’s theme is ‘Let Justice and Peace Flow’ and the symbol of the river calls for action against biodiversity loss and climate change. As Pope Francis stated in his message for the Day of Creation: “In this Season of Creation, as followers of Christ on our shared synodal journey, let us live, work and pray that our common home will teem with life once again.”

On the 24th and 25th of August, our year 11 students spent some time on retreat, reflecting on their relationship with each other, with themselves and with God. Each student should be commended for their approach to the retreat, engaging with the various facilitators in a meaningful way. These days cannot occur without the generous spirits of our Kolbe staff, thanks to all the staff that attended the days as well as all those who worked behind the scenes to make the retreat a success.

Finally, the most notable event of term three was the Kolbe Feast Day. This event is always an important day on our College calendar, however, this year it took on additional significance. As well as the usual Feast Day activities and Mass, the statue of St. Maximilian Kolbe was blessed and a time capsule that will be opened in 2073 was also buried.

Our Feast Day Mass was concelebrated by Fr. Dishan (Good Shepherd, Gladstone Park), Fr. George (Our Lady’s, Craigieburn) and Fr. Anthony Fox, a Conventual Franciscan. Having our current and past priests celebrate Mass with us, alongside a Conventual Franciscan, the same order as St. Maximilian Kolbe was a very special occasion. Fr. Anthony’s Homily outlined the life, as well as the death of St. Maximilian, enabling each of us to connect with the story of St. Maximilian Kolbe in a new way.

It was also a blessing to share this with the wider community through the live stream as well as the parents and special guests who attended on the day. I congratulate all the students involved in the Mass and blessing of the statue, as well as all the students of Kolbe Catholic College for their reverence during the Mass. Thanks to all the staff who had an active role on the day, as well as all those who were involved in the preparation leading up to the day.

To our year 12 students, as you enter the final weeks of your secondary education, look after yourselves, each other, and your family. Over the break, I hope you find some space for contemplation and prayer, Jesus is always there to listen, guide and sustain you. To all other students, enjoy the break and I look forward to seeing you refreshed and revitalised for term four.

Peace and Blessings!

Rob Dellar
Director of Faith and Community