Good day, good people,

As we prepare to celebrate St Anthony’s Day, we are reminded of the rich Franciscan tradition that underpins our College identity. This year’s theme, inspired by The Canticle of Creatures, marks 800 years since St Francis of Assisi penned this beautiful prayer of praise for God’s creation. It invites us to reflect with gratitude on our relationships with each other, with nature, and with God.

St Anthony’s Day is a much-loved highlight on our College calendar. It is a special time for our community to come together in faith, friendship, and celebration. This year, we will mark the day with a joyful College Mass, buddy activities, and a lively Drum Circle. 

In keeping with tradition, Padua students will bring a share plate for morning tea to enjoy with their Assisi buddies — a beautiful expression of Franciscan hospitality and community.

In the lead-up to this celebration, we also acknowledge the powerful witness of our Padua and Assisi students who recently participated in the Vinnies School Sleepout. Through this experience, they deepened their understanding of homelessness and the valuable work of the St Vincent de Paul Society. Their reflection and action speak to the heart of our mission — to live out compassion and justice in practical ways.

St Anthony’s Day is always a wonderful celebration, and we look forward to sharing it with all of our students.

Pax et Bonum!   (Peace and Good Things)

Canticle of the Creatures     

by St. Francis of Assisi

Most High, all-powerful, good Lord,
Yours are the praises, the glory, and the honour, and all blessing.

To You alone, Most High, do they belong,
and no one is worthy to mention Your name.

Be praised, my Lord, through all Your creatures,
especially through my lord Brother Sun,
who brings the day; and You give light through him.
And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendour!
Of You, Most High, he bears the likeness.

Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars;
in the heavens You have made them bright, precious and fair.

Be praised, my Lord, through Brothers Wind and Air,
and fair and stormy, all weather’s moods,
by which You cherish all that You have made.

Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Water;
she is very useful, humble, precious and pure.

Be praised, my Lord, through Brother Fire,
through whom You light the night,
and he is beautiful and playful and robust and strong.

Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Mother Earth,
who sustains and governs us,
and who produces varied fruits with coloured flowers and herbs.

Be praised, my Lord, through those who forgive for love of You;
through those who endure sickness and trial.
Happy those who endure in peace,
for by You, Most High, they will be crowned.

Be praised, my Lord, through our Sister Bodily Death,
from whom no living man can escape.
Woe to those who die in mortal sin.
Happy those she finds doing Your most holy will.
The second death can do them no harm.

Praise and bless my Lord, and give Him thanks
and serve Him with great humility.