Churchill Avenue News

As we approach the end of another year, we reflect on the incredible spirit of unity and generosity that has defined 2024 at Caroline Chisholm Catholic College. In this season of Advent, where we focus on hope, faith, joy, and love, our College community has truly lived out these virtues in word and deed.

One of the highlights of this term was our Christmas Appeal and giving tree, which raised $3,000 for MacKillop Family Services along with over 100 gifts for local families. This extraordinary act of generosity is a testament to the compassion and love within our community, reminding us of our call to care for our neighbours, especially those in need. Christmas is a time when God reminds us that gentleness, humility and trust in others are a way forward to live lives defined by peace and love – our efforts in this appeal and in our daily lives reflect this.

Recently we celebrated our Feast of Christ the King end of year mass. We were reminded of the significance of this gathering—the final opportunity for our entire College family to come together before the year concludes. It was a moment to reflect on our achievements, give thanks for our blessings, and renew our commitment to being light for the world.

This Advent also marks the beginning of the Jubilee Year of Pilgrims of Hope, to be inaugurated by Pope Francis on Christmas Eve. He invites us all to walk as pilgrims, bringing hope to the world through our actions, our faith, and our love. I encourage you over Advent and Christmas to consider Pope Francis’ words in his jubilee prayer: “May that same grace spread the joy and peace of our Redeemer throughout the earth.”

As we bid farewell to 2024, I wish all our families a blessed and joyful Christmas. May the spirit of Advent fill your homes with light and peace, and may the coming year bring opportunities to grow together as a community of “Many Minds, One Heart.”

On a personal note, this is my final newsletter article as our Deputy Principal Faith and Mission, I will continue to work at the College next year in the Wellbeing team. Thank you for your support, kindness, and generosity throughout the year. Together, may we continue to make a difference and live out the mission of our College.

Tristan O'Brien
Deputy Principal, Faith and Mission