Ministry Update – Term 1 Week 6
As we enter past the halfway point of the school term, I see more and more students having to make choices between what occupies their time. Everyday students are juggling study, homework, friendships, co-curricular opportunities…I am sure for some students it feels like a list that could go on forever! In the busyness of it all, it is easy to bounce from one thing to the next. Our life quickly becomes a ‘tick box’ exercise where we seek to move from one thing to the next, clearing our schedules only for more things to take their place. It is very easy in these moments to neglect our spiritual wellbeing, and yet making time for this, is so vital to our health and having a sound mindset.
The season of Lent is an invitation for us to pause and reflect on how we are living. What are the things we are giving priority to in our lives? Who are those around us that could benefit from our presence, our love, and our care? Lent is not just about giving things up, as we may all remember from our time in primary school It is about making space – for God, for ourselves, and for others. It is a time for us to slow down, to refresh, and to realign our hearts with what truly matters.
On Wednesday, we had a number of our Year 11 and 12 students travel down to Bunbury for the first of our Marist Youth Ministry Connect Nights – an opportunity to step away from the distractions of school and life, and focus on faith, community, and self-reflection. Forming a group of over 60 from Newman College, Bunbury Catholic College, and St Joseph’s Northam, students gathered together, being present to one another, and allowing themselves time to be nurtured as they explored our Marist theme Pilgrims of Hope: Look Beyond together. Their example of finding space in the busiest of circumstances is one we can all share in.
Moments like these Connect Nights remind us that spiritual growth doesn’t just happen – it requires us to be intentional about putting aside time in our lives. Creating space can be difficult, but in those moments when we can, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day, we can better hear God’s call in our lives, and be cognisant of his presence among us. We gain clarity about who we are, who we are becoming, and how we can be more present to others.
As we approach the second week of Lent, my great hope is that the students, staff, and families of our community can be intentional about making time for their own reflection and renewal – whether it be through a family conversation at the dinner table at the end of the day, committing to doing something for the community together, or even simply expressing gratitude to someone who has done something special for you. By doing so, we open ourselves to transformation, drawing closer to God and becoming more fully like the people he calls us to be.
Looking for a moment in your week to pause, reflect, and reset? Each Friday during Lent, students, staff, and families are welcome to join us for a short reflection in our Champagnat Chapel. We look forward to making everyone feel welcome.
Mr Stuart McClorey
DIRECTOR OF MISSION & CATHOLIC IDENTITY