Mission and Wellbeing (AP)

In the coming weeks, we will be inviting students, teachers and parents to provide feedback on their experience of our school using an online survey. The surveys are an important part of our whole school evaluation and planning process.

We would like to invite you to complete the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning survey. As we value the role of parents and carers within our school community, we would greatly appreciate your feedback. The information you provide will be used to maintain our commitment to working together in partnership to further improve student learning and wellbeing at McAuley Catholic College 

The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. 

You are able to access the parent survey on your computer or mobile device by using the URL below:

Pope Leo XIV

Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, the Chicago-born prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops under Pope Francis, was elected the 267th pope on May 8th, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. 

We give thanks for his ministry, leadership, and faithful service to the Church. In this newsletter you will find a letter from Bishop Greg Homeming OCD outlining more details about our new pope. Welcome, Pope Leo XIV

Proclaim Lismore aims to provide a comprehensive continuum of intentional student discipleship programs across the Diocese for students from Year 4 to Year 12. These gatherings bring Catholic school students together to meet like-minded peers and to celebrate with other young people who practice their faith. 

Youth Ministry Classes are currently offered to Year 9 and 10 students in Catholic secondary schools, allowing those interested in nurturing their faith an opportunity to develop skills in peer-to-peer ministry. These Youth Ministry classes use a Catholic Schools Youth Ministry Australia (CSYMA) program. 

SHINE offers students an opportunity to encounter Jesus Christ and the Church, to experience dynamic faith, to be equipped for ministry and living the Christian life, and to be empowered to impact the Church and the world. It is an opportunity to gather and share an experience of faith.

Students in the Year 9 and 10 Ministry classes will receive more information about this fantastic opportunity. 

Year 12 Retreat 

Last week, Year 12 students went to the Yarra Adventure Centre for their retreat. The theme of the retreat was “Finding Hope for the Future”. The students spent quality time reflecting on their qualities and characteristics and planning for the future. Throughout the retreat, they worked in small groups and as a year group to reflect on their journey to this point, as well as their relationship with others and with God.  

It was an amazing retreat, where the students enjoyed each other’s company and shared in many highlights of their final time together in an overnight experience. The students were open and positive, and the staff were very proud of how the year group conducted themselves. It was a pleasure to be on retreat, and I would like to thank the staff who dedicated their time to ensure the students had a positive experience. Thank you to Ms Nicholls, Mr Howard, Mr Burton, Mrs Doyle, Angus Field, our College Youth Minister (CYM), Jacob Somers and the CYM from St John Paul College, Oliver Dwyer. 

A most memorable event for the staff and students, and one we will all treasure. 

St Vincent de Paul College Sleepout 

To reinforce our understanding of all people in society, including the homeless and those suffering from mental health issues, the College will hold a Sleep Out on the grounds on Thursday, 5th June, for students in Years 10-12 only. The idea is that students will spend the night at school to experience homelessness and develop empathy for those suffering in our society. 

The Sleep Out will begin after school on Thursday and end at 8.20 am on Friday. Supervision will be provided overnight, and students can bring their things for school on Friday. 

Those involved will be provided with a simple meal and entertainment before sleeping under the fixed covered area near the canteen. Normal supervision, school rules and boundaries will be followed on the night.                                                                                                                                                                                             

A collection of clothing, blankets and non-perishable food for St Vincent de Paul is a part of the Sleep Out Appeal. A gold coin donation will be collected to cover the costs of the meal. 

Students are to bring their sleeping bags or blankets, a thin mattress, pillows and adequate clothing for a night outside. Extra food and drink are not to be brought to the College as this is against the purpose and atmosphere of the evening. Students are encouraged not to use electronic devices (including mobile phones) during the Sleep Out. 

Parish Family Mass 

All families are welcome to a Parish Family Mass on Sunday, 15th June at 8 am at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Grafton. Our students will be involved with the parts of the mass, including reading, offertory and music ministry. 

A Morning Tea will follow the mass. All families are welcome to attend, and we look forward to this parish and community event. 

Kathy Warby
Assistant Principal - Mission and Wellbeing