RE MATTERS

Good day good people, as we gather as a College community, we are reminded of the Franciscan spirit of welcome and care that lies at the heart of who we are. St Francis and St Anthony teach us to see each person as brother or sister, greeting one another with openness, kindness and respect. In this same way, we extend a warm welcome to all families who are part of our College. Your presence enriches our community and reminds us of the strength that flows from relationships grounded in love, compassion and shared faith.

Father’s Day Reflection – The Forgiving Father

The story of the Prodigal Son reminds us that at the heart of fatherhood is not perfection, but love and forgiveness. The younger son leaves home, makes mistakes, and feels unworthy to return. Yet his father waits, watches, and runs to embrace him. His love is not conditional on success, good choices, or achievements—it is simply given, freely and abundantly.

This parable shows us an image of God’s fatherly love: patient, merciful, and always ready to welcome us home. On Father’s Day, we celebrate and give thanks for the fathers, grandfathers, and father-figures in our lives who, in their own way, reflect something of this love. Their strength, their guidance, and especially their forgiveness teach us that love is bigger than mistakes and that a relationship is always more important than pride.

May we remember today that fatherhood is not only about providing, but also about listening, guiding, and forgiving. And may we hold in prayer those fathers who are no longer with us, those separated from their families, and those who carry the heavy responsibility of raising children.

Like the forgiving father in the Gospel, may all fathers know the joy of open arms, reconciliation, and the deep peace that comes from love

Loving God,

Thank you to our fathers, grandfathers, and all who care for us.

Bless them for their love, compassion, and guidance.

Keep them safe and give them joy each day.

May their hearts reflect Your kindness and strength.

    Fill their lives with peace and surround them with love.

Help us to show our gratitude through respect, care, and prayer.

Amen.

A Message for Our Senior Students

As our senior students approach the final part of their school journey, we are mindful of the pressures and hopes that come with this time of study, exams, and preparation for life beyond school. These weeks are not only about academic achievement but also about resilience, balance, and the courage to face challenges with hope.

For parents, families, and our wider College community, this is a time to hold our young people in prayer. We pray that they may find calm in moments of stress, clarity in their thinking, and confidence in the gifts God has given them. We ask for patience and understanding in our homes, as students juggle long hours of study and the emotions that come with it.