As we come to the close of another school year, it is with deep gratitude and pride that I reflect on all we have shared and achieved as a Brigidine community. This weekend, we will enter the sacred season of Advent, a time of waiting, hoping and preparing our hearts anew for the joy of Christmas. Advent invites us to pause amid the rush of year’s end and remember that God walks gently with us, illuminating our path with promise and peace.

This year, our students have embodied that Advent spirit long before the season officially began. Through their leadership, compassion and willingness to serve, they have helped bring Christ’s light into our world in countless ways. Whether through liturgies, retreats, social justice initiatives or everyday kindness, our young people have been powerful witnesses to the Brigidine values of strength and gentleness, faith and vision, questioning and compassion.

Year 11 Retreat

We were blessed to have singer/songwriter Gen Bryant and her team in to facilitate our Year 11 Retreat Day. The day was full of music, singing and deep discussion about their relationships with each other, those around them and with God. My sincere thanks to all the staff who made the day possible. In particular, I wish to thank each Year 11 student for participating in the day in such an outstanding way.

Brigid’s Bites Officially Commences

A particular highlight this term has been the successful launch of Brigid’s Bites, our new initiative responding directly to local food insecurity. The enthusiasm from students and staff has been inspiring. Brigid’s Bites embodies the very heart of the Gospel, feeding the hungry, building community and recognising the dignity of every person. Thank you to all who contributed time, creativity and energy to bring this mission-focused project to life. It is already making a tangible difference.

Christmas Hampers Appeal for St Vincent De Paul

As we prepare for Christmas, we also make our final call for donations to the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Hampers. These hampers bring hope, comfort and dignity to families facing hardship at a time that can be especially difficult. If you are able, we invite you to offer one more act of generosity, one more gesture of light, before the year concludes. St Brigid’s legacy reminds us that even the smallest act of kindness can warm another’s heart.

To all students: thank you. Thank you for your openness during moments of prayer, for your participation in social justice programs, for your willingness to ask deep questions and for living out our charism in such real and practical ways. You have helped shape a community that continues to reflect God’s love in vibrant, hope-filled ways.

As we step into Advent and look ahead to Christmas, may you find moments of rest, wonder and renewal. May the light of Christ guide your families with peace and may the spirit of St Brigid inspire you to keep tending the flame of justice, compassion and faith.

Wishing you all a blessed Advent, joyful Christmas and a restful and safe holiday.

In Strength and Kindness.

Prayer

Loving God,
As we enter this sacred season of Advent,
we pause in the spirit of St Brigid,
woman of welcome, light, and generous hope.

In these weeks of waiting,
open our hearts to Your quiet coming among us.
Help us to notice the small signs of Your presence
in our students, our colleagues, and our daily work.

May the flame of Brigid’s hospitality guide us
to create warmth where there is loneliness,
peace where there is stress,
and kindness where there is need.

As we prepare the way for Christ,
strengthen us to be bearers of justice,
messengers of compassion,
and makers of peace within our community.

Loving God,
may this Advent renew our hope,
deepen our faith,
and ready our hearts to greet the joy of Christmas.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

John Riddle

Director of Catholic Identity and Mission

Head of Counselling Services