NEW UNIFORM

Over 300 bookings for fittings have already been made and more bookings are having to be opened up by our new Uniform Suppliers, Noone (pronounced noon). While COVID-19 has certainly increased the pressure to ensure supplies arrive in a timely fashion, we are very excited about not only the new designs, but the very positive feedback we are hearing from families.

Once again, I must reiterate if any families are experiencing financial difficulties and may need support with moving to new uniforms (Years 7, 10 and/or 11 2021) please do not hesitate to contact the College Office and a meeting with myself can be arranged.

PRESENTATION DAY

Due to existing COVID-19 restrictions our Presentation Day will look quite different this year. Still held at St Gregory’s College Hall, the presentation itself (on Monday 14 December) will need to be shorter in duration and therefore will be aimed at Award Winners (with one member of each Award Winner’s family invited). Badging of our Student Leaders, and SRC members for 2021, will also occur as part of the occasion. More details will be provided in due course.

BEGINNING OF ADVENT

Sunday marks the commencement of Advent. The Season itself is an opportunity to reflect on the dichotomy between our everyday routine and the unexpected joyful arrival of the Lord.

Pope Francis has spoken often about the importance of this Liturgical Season and has reminded us that we should not be: “dominated by the things of this world”. Instead, Pope Francis tells us that we need to remain resolute and focused on that which is truly important in our lives. The Pope tells us that: “if we allow ourselves to be overpowered by a concern for material things, we will not be able to perceive what is much more important: our final encounter with the Lord”. Thus, to the Pope, Advent is a critical time and a timely reminder and invitation to: “vigilance, because, not knowing when He will come, we must always be ready to depart.” Indeed, for Pope Francis we are: “called to enlarge the horizons of our hearts, to be surprised by the life that is presented each day with its newness. In order to do this, we need to learn to not depend on our own securities, our own established plans, because the Lord comes in the hour which we don’t imagine.”

PRAYER

Often it can be helpful to turn to the writings of others in order to seek a mediation of something that might be occupying our minds. As we approach the Christmas season, we might notice this space alluding or stopping one from peace, serenity and calm. Here, I offer a reflection from the writings of John O’Donohue, an Irish poet who draws on his Celtic traditions and the natural beauty of our world, to bring comfort and inspiration as we each journey together through life.

“A Blessing for Presence”

Awaken to the mystery of being here and enter the quiet immensity of your own presence.

Have joy and peace in the temple of your senses. 

Receive encouragement when new frontiers beckon.

Respond to the call of your gift and the courage to follow its path.

Let the flame of anger free you of all falsity.

May warmth of heart keep your presence aflame.

May anxiety never linger about you.

May your outer dignity mirror an inner dignity of soul.

Take time to celebrate the quiet miracles that seek no attention.

Be consoled in the secret symmetry of your soul.

May you experience each day as a sacred gift woven around the heart of wonder.