In recent weeks we have acknowledged and celebrated the wonderful achievements of our Year 12 students and the contribution they have made to the College during their time with us. These activities and events culminated with the Graduation Mass and Ceremony at St Patrick’s Church, Mentone and Graduation Dinner at Leonda by the Yarra, which were wonderful celebrations!

At the Graduation Dinner, College Co-Captains, Rachel and Sienna, thanked ‘the wonderful staff that have been a part of their journey’ throughout their time at Kilbreda on behalf of the Class of 2023.  With Friday 27 October being the celebration of World Teachers’ Day in Australia, a day where we acknowledge and celebrate the significance of teachers in our community, I share with you Rachel and Sienna’s expression of gratitude:

“We wouldn’t be where we are today if it wasn’t for your dedication, passion and drive you provide constantly. The Kilbreda experience wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for your continued support and compassion towards the class of 2023. From being welcomed back in 2018 with warm, friendly smiles, you helped to provide a safe space for students to thrive and learn, as well as a place for individuals to be themselves in the comfort of their peers and interests. It is teachers like you, who create such a significant difference for students, and create a positive high school experience. Your unwavering support, dedication, and the genuine care and love you’ve shown us as teachers have left an indelible mark on our hearts. Your belief in our abilities, encouragement, and your willingness to go the extra mile to ensure success has been a constant source of inspiration to us all.

We wish to extend our gratitude to all the teachers who have been present in our Kilbreda journey. From Homeroom teachers to subject teachers, to relief teachers, every impact big or small has meaningful impacts to us. Each moment is special and has shaped our journey. The dedication and spirit within the classroom have made each and every day we share with you more and more special. We thank you also, for never giving up on us, trusting each student, guiding each of us, and believing in each of us to reach our potential. The compassion and support from a teacher are what makes a difference in a student’s life and success. And all we have learnt, we have learnt from you, and for that we are forever grateful.”

World Teachers’ Day

I would also like to express my deepest appreciation to our teachers on this, World Teachers’ Day, for their tireless dedication, generosity and commitment towards the education and support of the students in their care. The students at Kilbreda are truly blessed to have such dedicated and talented teachers.

Prayer for Peace

Pope Francis recently called for a day of prayer to be held on Friday 27 October, to pray for peace in Israel and Palestine. Pope Francis counsels there is just one side to take in the current conflicts – that of peace.

Staff and students were invited to gather in our Chapel this morning to pray for an end to the conflict and violence, and for peace for all peoples. I share with you this prayer which you may like to use as a family at home together.

Lord, send us the gift of peace

Watch over the people of Israel and Palestine
who have been forced to flee their homes
and face violence and fear.
Lord, send us the gift of peace.

Lead them to a place of safety,
comfort those who grieve
and bring healing to those in pain.
Lord, send us the gift of peace.

Convert the hearts of those
who commit violence and wage war.
Turn them away from persecution towards peace.
Lord, send us the gift of peace.

Turn hatred to understanding,
and anger to compassion.
Through your love, transform horror into hope.
Lord, send us the gift of peace.

And fill us all with your Spirit
so that with one voice, throughout the world,
we may cry out:
Lord, send us the gift of peace.

Prayer: Catherine Gorman/Catholic Agency For Overseas Development (CAFOD)

Nicole Mangelsdorf
Principal