Last Sunday was Pentecost Sunday. This is the event that begins with all the apostles huddled in a room, frightened and bewildered about where they will go and what will they do. Their leader and friend, Jesus, has gone and despite saying he will return, they are still alone. They have begun preaching and spreading the good news but they are facing increasing aggression and push back, which has eroded their confidence and courage in driving their mission forward. At this point, the room is filled with a wind and flames of fire settle on each of their heads. The Holy Spirit joins them in the room and gives them the graces and gifts that enable them to leave that space emboldened and driven to take the good news out to the far reaches of the world as they knew it. It is a story of how the Holy Spirit can empower us to do great things.

How often are we faced with situations that seem insurmountable or challenging and we pray for a little divine intervention that will give us the wisdom and/or the courage to do what has to be done? It is in these times that the Holy Spirit can be our best ally and support. Just like the support given to the apostles at Pentecost, the Holy Spirit can be there for us when we are feeling depleted, defeated or under siege. We just need to reach out.

Just over a week ago, I listened to Stan Grant inform his audience that he will step away from hosting Q+A because of the aggressive threats and attacks that both he and his family have received since his comments on the King’s recent coronation. As an Aboriginal man, who has watched his people endure unimaginable suffering and persecution since colonisation, it is not surprising he would hold views about the monarchy and its impact on indigenous cultures across the world. What has happened in our society that we are unable to listen to the views of others and come to the decision that we respectfully agree or respectfully disagree with them? Why are we compelled to attack the person if we don’t like what we hear or if it doesn’t suit our perspective? What has changed that we are now so intolerant of those different to us? Surely diversity strengthens our communities and helps us to see that, essentially, we are all very similar?

At St Patrick’s, we embrace the diversity in our community. Girls coming from many ethnic backgrounds, faith traditions and family structures means that everyone in our community can feel welcome and included. Whilst we are a Catholic community, we make a space for everyone who wants to be a part of this community. We are good neighbours to all, which enables the grace of the Holy Spirit to find a home in all of us.

Last Friday, we could see the strength and ability of many girls on the athletics track. The girls were exceptional in their participation in the day. Equally inspiring were the girls who were not necessarily the girls who would go on to represent the College, but the girls who participated just to have a go. They were wonderful and their efforts contributed to the house points that were scored on the day.

Last weekend saw our girls and young men from St Gregory’s rehearsing for the upcoming musical. A full day was given so that they could refine their skills and their performance for our benefit later in June.

Once again, our debaters prepared and honed their skills of arguing and rebuttal in the debating competition on Friday evening. They gave their best and thought through their arguments with courage and tenacity.

Through the week, girls have submitted assessments, tentatively raised their hands to ask questions in class and extended kindness and friendship to girls who seem at a loss, demonstrating the presence of the Holy Spirit in our community. Ours is a community with many blessings and we are grateful for the work of the Spirit in every moment in every day.

Sadly, a number of families in our community are grieving the loss of a parent. I will leave you with an excerpt taken from John O’Donoghue’s book Benedictus and Prayer On the Death of a Loved One.

Blessings

Sue Lennox

Though we cannot see you with outward eyes,
We know our soul’s gaze is upon your face,
Smiling back at us from within everything
To which we bring our best refinement.

Let us not look for you only in memory,
Where we would grow lonely without you.
You would want us to find you in presence,
Beside us when beauty brightens,
When kindness glows
And music echoes eternal tones.

When orchids brighten the earth,
Darkest winter has turned to spring;
May this dark grief flower with hope
In every heart that loves you.

May you continue to inspire us.

At the Mass on this Solemnity of Pentecost celebrated in Saint Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis in his homily called on Catholics to “invoke the Spirit daily upon our whole world!” He also explained how the Spirit “restores harmony in the heart…to forgive sins, to reconcile minds and to harmonize hearts wounded by evil, broken by hurts, led astray by feelings of guilt.” The Pope said it would be good to examine our own lives and ask if we are open to the harmony of the Spirit, or if we resist being transformed by sticking to our own pursuits and ideas. Are we quick to judge others, overlooking our own weaknesses, he asked, and do we try to foster reconciliation and build communion? As Catholic Australians we must work towards harmony in terms of reconciliation and become in touch with the harmony of the Spirit. It is time we examine our nation, its history, and the need for healing.

These are not just my personal views but that of Catholic social justice teaching informed by the sacred texts and a long tradition of Papal leadership.  Catholic social teaching says that the life and dignity of indigenous peoples should always be protected in the same way that the life and dignity of every human being should be protected. In the past and even now in the present this has not been the case. Pope John Paul II recognised and addressed this issue when he visited Alice Springs in 1986. He also wrote in his exhortation Ecclesia Oceania published in 2001, “Whenever the truth has been suppressed by governments and their agencies or even by Christian communities, the wrongs done to the indigenous peoples need to be honestly acknowledged….The past cannot be undone, but honest recognition of past injustices can lead to measures and attitudes which will help to rectify the damaging effects for both the indigenous community and the wider society. The Church expresses deep regret and asks forgiveness where her children have been or still are party to these wrongs. Aware of the shameful injustices done to indigenous peoples in Oceania, the Synod Fathers apologized unreservedly for the part played in these by members of the Church, especially where children were forcibly separated from their families.”  (Ecclesia in Oceania, 28).

In relation to recent developments in the process of reconciliation in Australia the Catholic Church has supported the Uluru Statement of the Heart as have many other Christian and non-Christian churches or religions. Earlier this year the Catholic Church joined other churches and religious organisations signing an open letter calling on parliamentarians “to find ways to collaborate constructively across political divides” to support the Indigenous Voice to parliament as “Future generations of Australians will not forgive us if we fail to grasp the historical moment, and ‘advance Australia’ further along the path of justice.” The letter was signed by Catholic, Uniting and Anglican churches, the Australian National Council of Imams and the Executive Council of Australian Jewry.

This week many will pray for harmony of the Spirit and for Reconciliation in Australia. Below is an extract from Fr Frank Brennan’s Pentecost Homily on the 28 May 2023.

“Let’s hope the reconciling Spirit blows through the chambers of our Parliament during the next three weeks while our elected leaders lay the groundwork for the three month campaign when we the people must decide how we are to be reconciled in this land, deeply listening to each other’s concerns for those who are the First Peoples of this land and for all those who come to this land to find a home where they can live in peace and security, equal under the law.

Come, Holy Spirit, come! 

On our dryness pour your dew;

Wash the stains of guilt away:

Bend the stubborn heart and will;

Melt the frozen, warm the chill;

Guide the steps that go astray.

Come, Holy Spirit, come!”

Louise Barry - Religious Studies Coordinator

The feast is celebrated in Australia on Sunday 11 June. In Sydney on Sunday 11 June thousands of Catholics are expected to participate in the annual Walk With Christ procession through Sydney’s central business district. 

The Walk with Christ annual Eucharistic Procession through the streets of Sydney exists to make a joyful public proclamation and act of worship towards the person of Jesus Christ [as King], and to invoke His blessing upon the city.

In a Eucharistic procession a priest or a bishop carries a monstrance [an ornamental container used to hold the Eucharist], which at its centre holds the living presence of Jesus Christ. During a procession, Jesus Christ comes among us in humility and in love. We use incense to signify adoration to God as well as our prayers rising heavenwards. A procession allows us to give public witness to this central belief of Catholic faith: the intimate presence of God in the world, His merciful love for all and His invitation to us to journey with Him into eternal life.

If you would like more information please visit the website below...

https://www.sydneycatholic.org/about-us/archdiocesan-events/walk-with-christ/

Upcoming Mission Events

31 May - 2 June: Year 11 Retreat

22 June: Diocesan Liturgical Ministries Training Day

23 June: ALIGHT after school retreat for Years 10-12

30 June: Benedict Day [all are invited to celebrate Mass with our community at 9am]

Joel Duval - Mission Coordinator

Critics argue that there is no evidence supporting the effectiveness of such bans, but this is a mischaracterisation. Studies have shown the positive impacts of mobile phone bans in schools. One study conducted in 2016, found that banning mobile phones led to an increase in student performance, with test scores improving by 6.4% of a standard deviation. Similar studies from Spain and Norway also supported these findings.

For parents concerned about mobile phone separation anxiety in their children, it is important to acknowledge it as a real issue and discuss the negative effects of phone addiction, such as sleep problems and mental health issues. Gradually introducing phone-free periods at home, setting clear expectations and boundaries and modelling healthy behaviours can help your child cope. It is also crucial to establish a support network and seek professional help if needed. Implementing mobile phone bans in schools allows for better focus on teaching and learning, minimising distractions and interruptions.

This Special Report will help address mobile phone separation anxiety and provide guidance on supporting your child’s wellbeing during this transition period. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please consider seeking medical or professional help.

Click on this link to view the Special Report https://saintpatricks.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-mobile-phone-separation-anxiety

Karen Wright - Assistant Principal, Wellbeing

There was a range of activities to complete such as Mars Rovers, ElectraCity, Bionic Hands, Job Juggle, Bridge Building, Stringways and much more. One team from each school competed in every challenge. Each team was awarded points based on how well they completed the challenge compared to the other teams. The activities included things like building a functioning hand out of straws and string that needed to be able to effectively pick up different items, as well as perform sign language!

Thank you to Mrs Thomas, Mrs Parker and Mrs Lahood for organising the day and creating a memorable and exciting experience for all of us.

Jessica Thomas - STEM Integrator and Science Teacher

The event was held at The Cube on 19 May and Caitlin delivered an address to an audience of over 200 senior government agency, industry and Ministerial Representatives.  

Caitlin outlined that public transport, care for the environment and the needs of youth were important areas for future Campbeltlown city planners. Caitlin also reflected on her great grandfather’s time at Campbelltown Council and how he helped transform Campbelltown from a rural town to a modern city.

An article on Caitlin was featured in the Macarthur Chronicle. you can view the article here

Fran Musico-Rullo - HSIE Teacher

We would like to express our gratitude to Anastasia, our legal coach, who helped the team enhance their understanding of the legal system and relevant case law. Her valuable insights greatly contributed to the civil case proceedings.

On May 17, 2023, our Mock Trial team went head-to-head against Redfield College in the second round of the competition. This was a crucial day for the team, as it marked the culmination of their hard work over the past few weeks.

During the trial, our team demonstrated integrity and professionalism. They handled a challenging case admirably and effectively conveyed their points.

As the defense in the civil case, our team had to prove that the defendant was not liable for negligence under the Civil Liability Act 2002 (NSW), based on the balance of probabilities. Our school's Mock Trial team successfully persuaded the magistrate with their arguments and emerged as the winners of the 2nd Round.

The barristers, witnesses, court officers, and solicitor all put in diligent efforts during the examination-in-chief, cross-examination, opening and closing statements. Our barristers, Salome S and Ellie F, along with solicitor Karli G, skillfully presented and argued our case. Witnesses Jamie M and Dakota L performed exceptionally well under pressure, providing crucial evidence to support our arguments. Samantha S, our Court Officer, ensured the smooth running of the process and upheld all formalities.

We are delighted to share that the St Patrick's College team not only won the case but also emerged as the overall winners of the Mock Trial for Round 2. This victory has brought us great joy and provided us with valuable learning experiences. The magistrate commended the team for their preparation, professionalism, and impressive performance.

Currently, the Mock Trial Team is preparing for Round 3 of the competition, where they will be facing St Gregory's College.

Cassandra Conti - HSIE Teacher

Former teacher/librarian, Patrick Jordan (who is a volunteer at the Nagle Centre of St Vincent de Paul) was our guest speaker. He recalled the many instances where he gave one of our blankets to people who were disadvantaged in our local community. Mr Jordan said that every time he gave a welfare case one of our blankets their faces lit up knowing that someone out there cared for them. Each of our items has a label with ‘Handmade with love by St Patrick’s College fo Girls Knitting Group’. 

The Knitting Group handed over 55 blankets, 27 scarves and 30 beanies. A further 8 blankets have been donated to St John the Evangelist parish for their winter drive. 

I would like to thank all the wonderful ‘knitting lady’ volunteers who come into school each Thursday lunchtime  to help the girls or who knit and sew behind the scenes. It is lovely to see so many retired staff who continue to be involved with the College.

We will continue knitting until Term 4. Any donations of knitted squares are most welcome. We have some donated wool we can provide for anyone who would like to knit for our group.

Fran Musico-Rullo - HSIE Teacher and Knitting Group Coordinator

Catherine McLaren - CAPA Coordinator

The weather conditions were perfect for the event and the challenging course was in great condition. As always, our students' participation, behaviour and sportsmanship were outstanding and each individual represented themselves, the College and their families with distinction.

It was a successful day for the team of girls that attended the event with three students qualifying as part of the Wollongong Diocesan team that will compete at the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Championships being held at the Sydney Equestrian Centre on the 13 June. The three girls were Abbygael Thomas, Chloe Cox and Amelia Taylor.

Many thanks must go to Mr Duval who managed the team on the day, Gary our bus driver who also doubled as our course official and to the many parents that came along to support the girls.

The 2023 College Cross Country team consisted of

Ava M
Abbygael T
Willow R
Ava M
Chloe F
Olivia W
Tabitha D
Chloe C
Amelia T
Lily S
Charlize F
Emma R
Skyla S
Hannah W
Georgia T
Niamh M
Valentina S
Isabelle S
Cora W
Hannah M

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Considering the team was made up of a number of ‘part time’ football players, the girls performed extremely well throughout the day and proved to be very difficult competition for a number of the more fancied schools. A massive thank you must go to team coach Mrs Tacca-Baudana who managed the team on the day and did an amazing job.

The team consisted of Siena B, Sophie A, Amy Y, Lillian M, Jordanne M, Mia L, Dakoda L, Logan L, Darcy E, Jiselle P, Lily K, Cora W and Sophie M.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Year 10/11/12 Indoor Cricket

Eve F, Shreya A, Isabelle S, Valentina V, Lexi V, Laura Z, Jordanne M, Lillian M, Amelia M, Ava C and Gabrielle V.
Coach Mrs Lawrence.

Year 11/12 Netball

Monique G, Lucy G, Helen T, Amy Y, Charlie C, Krisa K, Hannah Y, Annalise D, Grace G, Mia F, Mirae Q and Ilori P.
Coach Ms Cornett.

Year 7/8/9 Basketball

Chloe C, Isabella K, Mahlia L, Valentina S, Olivia J, Kaitlin K and Jasmine S.
Coach Mr Nash

Under 16 Rugby League Division 1

Tapenisa M, Patressa A, Ava S, Lofia A, Ella D, Evie R, Scarlett N, Olivia L, Mariah A, Amelia C, Sophie Pand Cora W.
Coach Mr Ashcroft and Mr Baca. Assistant Coach Olivia Hind.

Under 16 Rugby League Division 2

Aliyah E, Peyton F, Charlize F, Ivy M, Hannah W, Tumi L, Elizabeth G, Manaseni V, Gabriella L, Emily C and Charlie H.
Coach Mr Ashcroft and Mr Baca. Assistant Coach Olivia Hind.

Year 10/11/12 Soccer

Darcy E, Jordana N, Olivia J, Jiselle P, Sophie M, Angelina H, Siena B, Lillian M, Mia L, Jacqui C, Emily H and Dakoda L.
Coach Ms Wallin.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

The Youth Excellence Awards is an initiative implemented by the Rotary Club of Campbelltown and was held at Wests Leagues. The event was attended by over 500 dignitaries and students from schools throughout the Macarthur Region and acknowledged the outstanding achievements of students across a range of disciplines.

Vivianne received her award for her outstanding achievements in rhythmic gymnastics where she was nominated as the International Athlete of the Year.

Charlie received her award for her excellent performance at the Australian Athletics Championships where she won Gold in the High Jump and was crowned as the Australian Champion.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

From week 7 until the end of the HSC, the library will be a quiet space in consideration of our year 11 and 12 students as they study in preparation for their upcoming exams.

Everyone is still welcome to enjoy the library. We simply ask that you do so quietly.

Games are still available for use: you can borrow them from the library and take them outside to play. Simply return them at the end of the break.

We appreciate your understanding and support for our seniors. 

Sue Harradine - Senior Library Technician

If these sound familiar in your household, there are some simple steps that can be taken to deal with this.

Step 1: Have a family meeting. Everyone gets a chance to explain what is bugging them.

Step 2: Be in agreement on how much time will be allocated to schoolwork per day or per week. The minimum would be around 1 hour per day.

Step 3: Agree that during this allocated time, homework will be the first priority, then assessments and any remaining time should be spent on independent learning (e.g. reviewing difficult work, making summaries etc).

Step 4: Allocate set times for schoolwork and set these out as a timetable displayed  on the fridge; e.g. Monday 4-5pm, 6-6.30pm.

Step 5: Agree that during these blocks of time, there will be no personal technology use (preferably phones switched off and put out of sight).

Step 6: Decide on rewards and consequences if the agreement is or is not honoured.

Collaboration leads to a more honest commitment.

Sue Harradine - Senior Library Technician

Let your friends and family know that we would love them to join our Community.

Fee Concession Scholarship applications are still available.

Any further questions, please contact Virginia Diomis, our College Registrar enrolments@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au

This free service is available for individuals who live in the Campbelltown, Camden and Wollondilly LGAs. Anglicare have an established relationship with Macarthur Family and Youth Services as a referral service for their client base and aim to grow this program within the community. If you feel that you or your family could benefit from this service, please call Anglicare's intake line on 1300 651 728 or email at: acwollongong@anglicare.org.au.