School Catechesis
Currents of Grace Conference: Empowering Catholic Educators
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere....to the ends of the earth."
This promise of Jesus was profoundly felt by over 300 educational and Church leaders who gathered in Canberra for the "Currents of Grace" conference. This significant event brought together leaders from Catholic schools in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, Samoa, the Cook Islands, Papua New Guinea, the United Kingdom, Uganda, and the USA. The conference provided four days of professional learning, formation for mission, school visits, meetings, and worship.
The St John Paul College Mission team attended this inspiring conference and returned with renewed enthusiasm, a wealth of ideas, and valuable contacts to follow up. Our time in Canberra was transformative, equipping us with new strategies and a refreshed vision for our roles as educators and evangelisers.
Leanne Gennat, Janine Sawtell & Sarah de Byl
The focus on both staff and student formation for ministry reflects a commitment to holistic spiritual development within Catholic schools. The exchange of ideas and best practices among delegates from diverse backgrounds fostered collaboration and mutual learning, strengthening the global Catholic education community.
Our Mission team is excited to implement the insights gained from the conference, further enriching our school's spiritual life and educational mission.
Year 11 Catholic Faith in Action Students Shine in Peer Ministry
Year 11 Catholic Faith in Action students joined Year 4 students from St Augustine’s for the Accendere retreat at the Curran Centre, themed ‘Friendship’. Through songs, games, activities, and prayers, students deepened their understanding of friendship and how Jesus is their greatest friend in all circumstances.
“Peer ministry provides a unique opportunity for young people to exercise leadership and discipleship within their faith communities, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection.” Our Year 11 students exemplified this by engaging the Year 4s in interactive and spiritually enriching activities. Their dedication was evident as they led prayers, facilitated discussions, shared testimonies, and participated in games, all reinforcing the theme of friendship.
Their involvement not only made the retreat memorable for the younger students but also helped them grow in their own faith and leadership skills. Their commitment to peer ministry sets a wonderful example of how faith can be shared and nurtured within our school communities.
Congratulations to our Year 11 students for their outstanding participation and engagement. Your efforts have made a significant impact, and we are proud of how you have embraced the call to serve and lead in faith.
