Welcome to Week 6. I hope the rain is coming at the right time for those who need it.

I had the great privilege to attend the Presentation Sisters Sesquicentenary in Wagga last Friday with Mrs Wright, Years 7 - 10 Year Captains and staff and students from St Mary’s.

The school and convent at Young were founded by the Presentation Sisters in 1886. The Presentation Sisters were invited from Ireland to Wagga due to the poverty and high level of social need in Wagga at the time. The presentation Founder, Nano Nagle, was famous for her work with the poor and the image of her carrying a lantern to visit those in need. There was a great quote at the liturgy that I think is still very relevant to the work of Catholic schools today:

“In our Presentation tradition, the light of the lantern has become a sacred symbol of going out to meet the needs of the world with presence, faith and action directed to serving the lost, the least and last.

In Nano’s time, the lantern became a sign of hope for those who saw it coming down the narrow, winding lane toward their home. And so, it is today that we continue to shine our lanterns into the dark places that need our attention, our love, our compassion and our care.”

Last Saturday night, Hennessy students attended the Hennessy Mass which is held each term. This mass is a great opportunity for students to participate in the mass and for us to develop ties with St Mary’s Parish. Thank you to Mrs Wright for her organisation and for running the youth group after mass. Numbers in the young group are increasing, which is another great way to reach out to young people to deepen their faith.

On Tuesday we began enrolment interviews for Year 7, 2025. So far our numbers are looking very healthy. If you know anyone interested in enrolment or a tour of Hennessy, please encourage them to contact the front office for an appointment and more information.

I try to walk around all classrooms when I get the chance, yesterday I visited most classrooms. Our classroom routines are being followed, giving students the consistency they need to learn. I am seeing engaged students being taught by professional and caring teachers. Our students are given not only the opportunity to learn a variety of subjects but also to be involved in a large range of extra-curricular activities. Today, Hospitality is hosting ‘Cafe Jerome’ which involves online ordering of either takeaway or food that can be eaten in the hospitality cafe with a Mexican influence. This cafe experience has been run in a very organised and professional manner. Students are also dressed in their pyjamas today to raise money for our CEO Sleepout - there are indeed many smiling faces today!

I hope everyone enjoys spending time with families and friends over the long weekend.