We have been shocked with the devastating news that came out of Christchurch last Friday. It will be one of those events in our lives where we will remember where we were when we first heard the news. A city that has had its fair share of grief and tragedy in the past has now been subjected to another tragedy. Our prayers and thoughts are with the people of New Zealand and particularly those in Christchurch. The victims, their families and all in their community are in our prayerful offerings. I am struck with the leadership and response given by the New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.  In speaking of this situation she has introduced a new dialogue into the public rhetoric. She has shown courage in reframing this terrorist attack and standing against those who try to divide communities based on race, religion or colour. She has been strong in identifying the strength that diversity has in the understanding of ‘us’ in community.  Her words are influencing others and we can only hope this will prove to be a positive outcome for all communities.

Emerald Gala Ball
Last Saturday, we hosted the St Patrick’s College Emerald Gala Ball at the Cube. It was a wonderful night which successfully raised money for the Scholarship Fund. A number of hard-working people joined the committee to ensure it was a success. The committee members include Julie O’Keefe (chair), Marion Windle, Peta Borg, Debbie Gates, Erin de Rooy, Tanya Roet, Samantha Richards, Damian McGovern and Danielle Grant. I am very grateful to these committee members. I would also like to acknowledge the companies who generously sponsored the ball. They include Silver Sponsors Campbelltown Catholic Club, Catholic Development Fund, Shamrock Printing, Bronze Sponsors Evans Jewellers, Kelly and Partners, Macarthur United Real Estate, Macarthur Engineering, Marsdens Law Group, TRN Group and Wakeling Automotive. In addition to this we had many companies and distributors who provided prizes and support for the night. We are very grateful and through their help, we will be able to assist girls and families access St Patrick’s College for their education.

Greatest Shave
Last Friday Brooke M had her hair cut to raise money for cancer research in support of her aunty who passed away last year. Her hairdresser Vanessa from Crimson Hair and Beauty in Glen Alpine came to the College to cut off the locks and then style the cut so that it would still fit our uniform requirements. The cut was able to provide hair which could be used for wigs. It was a moving event and many girls were touched by what they saw, given the number of people in our community who have been affected by cancer. Let’s hope that a cure is found soon to end the suffering and loss of life associated with cancer.

St Patrick's Day
Finally, we celebrated St Patrick’s Day this week. We were very fortunate to have Fr Michael celebrate mass for us and the assembly beforehand had fabulous Irish dancing, which is always a highlight. I will leave you with the words of the Deer’s Cry which is a version of the Breastplate of St Patrick.

Blessings

Sue Lennox - Principal 

St Patrick's Day Prayer

I arise today
Through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun,
Splendour of fire,
Speed of lightening,
Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea,
Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.

I arise today
Through God's strength to pilot me;
God's might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's eye to look before me,
God's ear to hear me,
God's hand to guard me
God's way to lie before me,
God's shield to protect me,
God's hosts to save me
Afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.

Christ shield me today
Against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me,
Christ in the ear that hears me.

I arise today
Through the mighty strength
Of the Lord of creation.

Amen.