Carrying the Light

As the semester draws to a close, we hold both gratitude and sorrow – gratitude for all that has been, and sorrow as we farewell a woman whose life helped shape the very heart of our College.

This past week, our community paused to honour the life of Sister Angela Ryan – a cherished past pupil, former Principal and Brigidine Sister. Her gentle wisdom, steadfast faith, and unwavering commitment to education and justice continue to echo through the hallways of Kilbreda. Angela taught us that true leadership is not loud or self-seeking, but strong, courageous, and deeply grounded in purpose. She showed us that service, when rooted in strength and kindliness, has the power to transform.

Angela’s story is not only woven into Kilbreda’s past – it continues to shape who we are becoming. As a young girl, her father – drawn to the bold and countercultural leadership of Mother Margaret Mary Bourke – made the courageous decision to enrol her here, seeking an education for his daughter that offered both intellectual challenge and the formation of heart and mind. In these classrooms, Angela encountered a world where girls were encouraged to study mathematics and science with rigour and confidence. It was here that her sharp intellect, fierce determination, and deep sense of justice first took shape.

Angela would return to Kilbreda not once, but twice, as Principal, and later gave wise and generous service through the Stewardship Council, the Finance Committee and the Past Pupils’ Network. She was also a founding leader of Kildare Ministries, helping to shape a bold and hope-filled expression of Brigidine and Presentation education for the future.

A woman ahead of her time, Angela saw possibilities long before others dared to imagine them. Her courage was not found in grand gestures, but in her unwavering belief that education – especially for young women – could change the world.

Angela believed that governance was sacred work – that decisions made in boardrooms and council meetings must be shaped by values, dignity and a vision for the common good. She led not for applause or recognition, but because she understood, deeply, the sacred responsibility of forming minds, touching hearts, and inspiring lives of justice, compassion and hope.

In her memory, may we continue to be a community that learns deeply, leads with humility, and never shies away from the bold and hope-filled work of shaping a more just world. As the prophet Micah reminds us, we are called “to act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with our God.” In honouring Angela, may we embrace this call – bringing those on the peripheries into the centre, shining Christ’s light into every space, and carrying forward her legacy with Strength and Kindliness.

The legacy of Angela Ryan is not only honoured in word – it is lived each day in the spirit and actions of our students. Throughout Semester 1, their courage, creativity and commitment have brought energy and meaning to every corner of our College life.

Our congratulations to the talented students who contributed to the St Bede’s production of Treasure Island. What an extraordinary performance – alive with colour, energy and storytelling. Your commitment, creativity, and teamwork were a gift to all who witnessed it. We also acknowledge the dedication of our Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students, who brought their Market Stall Project to life on Tuesday with passion and professionalism. Their preparation for the ILearn ILead presentations – delivering a one-hour session to their peers – was nothing short of impressive. These opportunities have allowed them to lead with initiative, confidence, and care.

As we look to the final week of term, the College continues to hum with activity. Our Year 11 students are preparing for their Central Australia adventure, a chance to connect deeply with land, culture and each other. Year 8 students are embracing the challenge of camp, Year 9 students are looking forward to their social, and Year 10 students are entering Future Week, where dreams and decisions begin to take shape.

A Prayer to Conclude

Loving and faithful God,

In the stillness of this moment, we give thanks for the life and legacy of Sister Angela Ryan –

a woman of wisdom, courage, and deep compassion.

May the light she carried continue to guide us as we seek to live with Strength and Kindliness.

Inspired by St Brigid, may we become people of generous hearts –

welcoming the stranger, lifting the weary,

and bringing warmth to places of coldness and light to places of shadow.

As we reflect on the mystery of the Trinity – three in one and one in three –

teach us the power of relationship and communion.

Help us to live in right relationship with one another, with all creation, and with You.

May we act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with You,

shining Christ’s light wherever we are called.

We ask this in Jesus’ name,

Amen.

May the coming break be a time of rest, renewal, and quiet joy for you and your loved ones.
We look ahead with hope and anticipation to all that Semester 2 will bring.

Stephanie Smyth

Acting Principal