A year of purposeful action

This year, our four Identity and Mission groups – The Justice Action Network, The Footprint Team, The Inservio Team and The Altar Server Team – have each been actively shaping school life through service, advocacy and faith-informed leadership. Below is an overview of the meaningful work they have been progressing so far.

The Justice Action Network has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving others throughout the year, with students generously volunteering their time to support a range of fundraising and social justice initiatives. In Term 1, they led the College’s support of Project Compassion by organising pancake and hot cross bun stalls, selling tickets for the Easter hamper raffle, and running the popular ‘Guess the Number of Eggs in the Jar’ competition. During Term 2, the group focused on the Vinnies Winter Appeal, creating items to sell at the Youth Arts Market and playing a central role in the highly successful Vinnies Quiz Night by writing the quiz, hosting the evening, and sourcing generous donations from local businesses for the silent auction. They also coordinated the House competition for Winter Woollies Week, encouraging the school community to donate warm clothing and essential items for those in need. Their dedication, generosity and willingness to put faith into action are a wonderful reflection of the values of St Mary’s College.

The Footprint Team has had a busy and productive semester, leading a range of initiatives to promote sustainability across the College. They organised the Easter foil recycling raffle in both the Junior School and Senior School, helped improve recycling practices by labelling bins, and promoted the themes of Laudato Si’ Week through a variety of sustainability-focused activities. Team members also visited Junior School classes to educate students about the correct use of waste bins, including how to use the FOGO and soft plastics recycling systems. They organised and ran the popular Op Shop, encouraging the school community to embrace sustainable fashion, and spoke at assembly about the environmental benefits of buying second-hand clothing. Most recently, they have been raising awareness of Plastic Free July, continuing to inspire students and staff to make simple choices that have a positive impact on our common home.

The Inservio Team plays an important role in the spiritual life of the College by developing and leading the liturgical and prayerful aspects of many of our community gatherings. The group’s Latin name, meaning ‘in service’, reflects the dedication and behind-the-scenes work students contribute to creating meaningful and engaging prayer experiences for the College community. Throughout the year, Inservio has explored themes including International Women’s Day, Easter, Reconciliation Week and Light in Darkness, thoughtfully guiding students and staff in prayer and reflection. The students are to be congratulated for the confidence and leadership they have demonstrated, particularly when reading before the whole College. It has been especially pleasing to see the Year 7 in the team embrace these opportunities, developing skills and confidence that will serve them well into the future.

The Altar Server Team has faithfully supported the priests who have celebrated the College’s significant liturgical gatherings throughout Semester 1. Beginning with the Annunciation Mass in Term 1, students developed their understanding of the role of an altar server and grew in confidence as they learned the rhythm and flow of the Mass. They continued this important ministry at the Nano Nagle Mass in Term 2 and are now preparing to serve at the Assumption Mass in Term 3. Serving at the altar requires focus, dedication, reverence and an awareness of the needs of the celebration, and these students have embraced these responsibilities with maturity and commitment. They are to be congratulated for their generous service and the important contribution they make to the prayer life of our College.