We come to the end of a full and varied week for the school community, culminating in the first full College mass this morning.

Main celebrant was the Bishop Elect Fr Paul Martin. It was great to welcome him back to the College, and in his introductory comments spoke of his 5 years at St Bede's, the first three from 1999-2001, and then his two as Deputy Rector in 2006-7.

His homily, with the simple but effective message of what we are called to be not only as students while at school but when we leave, to serve others resonated. The personal qualities of recently retired leader of the National Party, Bill English, Fr Paul highlighted in his sermon. He was a most effective politician for 27 years, but it was his qualities as a husband, father and servant to his community that was the focus of the message, and the notion that the formative days at school are not just about achievements, but rather what type of man our boys develop into as adults. Fr Paul could speak with reasonable authority as five of Bill English’s boys have been educated at St Pats Town, when he was the Rector.

The week also featured a most successful athletic sports on Tuesday and Thursday where the participation rates were very high, despite the heat!!

On Wednesday we began the season of Lent with a liturgy. In his homily, Fr Paul also referred to this important season in the church calendar, a time when in a sense we “clean up our back yard”, and ponder the ultimate sacrifice Jesus suffered on the cross, to save us. I often think Lent comes in timely fashion in the school year. It could be a time to address poor habits, make promises to ourselves that we endeavour to keep, and generally have a spiritual clean up. Over these 6 weeks we will continue to keep promoting the messages of Lent. Lent is not just about giving up something, but about alms giving and prayer.

From the Bedean community we wish the Villa Maria community all the best this weekend as their school community celebrate its centenary.

Until next week

Justin Boyle