An update from Jon McDowall.

Kia ora, 

I would like to start by firstly congratulating Fr John Adams, an old boy of the College (1977-1981), on his appointment as Bishop-Elect of the Diocese of Palmerston North. Fr John’s contribution to our College has been significant in so many ways. We will miss his warm and wise presence in our College, and we wish him all the very best in his new position. Secondly our congratulations also go to Fr Rick Loughan, also an old boy (1965-1970), who has been honored with the title of Monsignor by Pope Francis. This designates Fr Rick as a Chaplain of the Holy Father in recognition of his many years of faithful and humble service to both the local and national Church.   

As I reflect on my first six months as Rector, connecting with old boys has certainly been one of the highlights. Listening to their stories and hopes for the College’s future provides a rich context to the present day as we continue to develop young men of outstanding character with strong minds and gentle hearts.

Our Rugby Club has their annual club day recently, with the 1959 First XV Reunion being onsite for a dramatic win over St Andrew’s College. Rugby at the College has a rich history that so many of our old boys continue to support through sponsorship, time and resourcing. For this, I thank you, your support enables present-day students to experience the very best St Bede’s has to offer.

The Bedean Choir recently performed at the annual Big Sing competition. Our boys did the College extremely proud by performing three high-quality pieces, with the highlight being ‘There is Nothing Like a Dame', which was, without doubt, the crowd favourite at the evening gala.

I look forward to connecting with our old boys in Wellington this week and in Auckland on July 6, as well as seeing as many of you as possible at the Annual Dinner in August.

Nāku noa, nā

Jon