Today we gathered to celebrate the end of the academic calendar in a year of challenges, joys and the building of a culture that celebrates and nurtures an inclusive and vibrant community. We also take this opportunity to recognise the successes, strength, resilience and passion exhibited by our young women in 2023. So much has been achieved, both academically and more broadly, by our students who have had the courage to serve our community whilst honouring their own dreams and capabilities.
I want to thank the parents and carers of our young women for their support and commitment to the growth of their loved ones. I also thank their teachers for the exceptional learning opportunities and guidance they have provided this year.
Of course, I want to give thanks to and for each and every student at Merici College. I admire your positive, compassionate and caring attitude and determination to make our community feel safe, vibrant and one where all can grow and experience success, no matter what that might look, or sound like!
You have shown that our college values: fidelitas, integritas, communitas and spes are integral to our theme for this year. You have worked with your heads, hearts and hands in order to find direction whilst anchored in love and compassion. You have walked in Jesus’ footsteps and been inspired by:
- his model of Church being a gathering of like-minded people where all can flourish:
- His story of the well around which people can share their lives and source life giving water…
- and, of course, His use of loaves, fishes and meal tables to be hospitable , welcoming and a source of nourishment.
I have invited and challenged you to walk in Jesus’ footsteps and be inspired by his model of love, acceptance, mercy and understanding.
To live lives that model the principle of Ubuntu – “I am because we are.”
At the start of the year I challenged you to look beyond self and work to build community…
Consider the following ideas and questions:
- How patient were you ?
- How loving you were you?
- How tolerant were you?
- How humble were you?
- Did you become someone with ‘ubuntu’ through simple actions that contributed to your varied communities: family, friends and school?
- Was your “I am because we are” good enough in 2023?
I believe that many of you have achieved the personal goals set at the start of this year. Congratulations. If you didn’t, welcome to the world of aspiration and determination – a place where most of us exist! Just remember that
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” (C.S.Lewis)
For most of you I so look forward to you continuing your learning years with us and to walking with you as you journey on your individual stellar, dream fuelled trajectories. I can’t wait to see who you emerge to be in the coming years.
That being said, have a wonderful, safe and restorative break!
Merry Christmas and every blessing to you all.
Cherish the time you will have to be with those you love.
Mrs Anna Masters
Principal
For image gallery here:
https://merici.news/view-galleries/academic-awards-years-7-8-9-and-11-st…
https://merici.news/view-galleries/academic-awards-years-7-8-9-and-11-st…
https://merici.news/view-galleries/academic-awards-years-7-8-9-and-11-st…
