Pope Francis’ most recent encyclical is all about community.

“Fratelli Tutti” explores human relationships and even the interconnectedness of all life. I would like to share my favourite lines from the letter and reflect on how I believe they relate to our College in 2020:

The title of the encyclical is worth a thought or two: “Fratelli Tutti”. (an encyclical is a letter circulated to the world) The title is Latin for “all brothers” and is a shortening of a famous quotation from St Francis of Assisi who said we are "All brothers and sisters". This even echoes Jesus’ concept of whanau as we are all children of God and Jesus taught us to say “Our Father”. STC models itself on this concept of whanau. On one level, we see each other (staff and students) more than our own families some days! And on another level, this place is more than an organisation or corporation: we are not faceless. We have stayed connected through the highs and lows of 2020.

“Authentic reconciliation does not flee from conflict, but is achieved in conflict, resolving it through dialogue and open, honest and patient negotiation.”

STC is a community that desires justice but only justice that affirms the dignity of all involved, This year we have deepened our awareness of Restorative Practice as a Gospel message. It was an honour to receive the Police Commissioner’s 2020 Commendation for “innovative work” on Restorative Justice.

“Today we state clearly that the death penalty is inadmissible and the Church is firmly committed to calling for its abolition worldwide.” 

While all students in Year 11 RE classes studying the death penalty, we also explore ethical issues regarding human dignity and life. These lessons are inside and outside the classroom. We invite the students to be involved in acts of charity and advocacy. For example, the Can Drive, Clothing Drive and Shave for Cure are all College traditions we treasure: so many students are excited to be a part of these events.

“For “in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body” (1 Cor 12:13), in which each member has his or her distinctive contribution to make.”

We celebrate our universal unity through baptism. This year we have welcomed 21 students into the Church through our Sacramental Programme. 650 students attended a spiritual retreat day, College Masses and Liturgies. We have strengthened our ties with the local Catholic parish through Father Michael Therese Scheerger and Bishop Paul Martin.

“Families are the first place where the values of love Through our Mentoring programme we are called into whanau groups of big brothers and fraternity, togetherness and sharing, concern and care for others are lived out and handed on.” and little brothers. This reinforces the roles in a family home… the need to look after each other and invitation to be a gentle man are important developments for teenage boys.

“I cannot truly encounter another unless I stand on firm foundations, for it is on the basis of these that I can accept the gift the other brings and in turn offer an authentic gift of my own. I can welcome others who are different, and value the unique contribution they have to make, only if I am firmly rooted in my own people and culture 

STC has been working in partnership with our Maori, Pasifika and Filipino communities to develop cultural respect so that students feel welcome and understood. These collaborations between home and school are founded on our shared Christian values. I believe that STC is a place where we include all and celebrate or strength through diversity.

“Education and upbringing, concern for others, a well-integrated view of life and spiritual growth: all these are essential for quality human relationships and for enabling society itself to react against injustices.”

It is important that we remember the power and beauty of hope: hope through education, hope through community, hope through faith. The lockdown taught us many things about resilience, connectedness and concern for others. May we always remember those tough days and social inequities that were highlighted. I personally want to acknowledge Brad Milne’s leadership in the lockdown.

What we need is “a better kind of politics, one truly at the service of the common good.” When I think of leadership I am immediately drawn to the awesomeness of the Year 13 leaders of 2020. They have been role models of perseverance, grit and humility. Despite (or maybe because of?!) the stresses of COVID-19, they set new school records for charity, inclusion and engagement. In fact, the Year 13 Leaders started with a vision not unlike Pope Francis… “Brothers Together, Brothers Forever” was realised, lived and made authentic through their hard work.

May your preparations for the joyous event of Christmas find time to include your own spiritual preparedness:

· Celebrate your precious life and the beautiful people in it

· Relax away from device screens in our stunning country (also known as Godzone).

· Start each day by naming the blessings in your life.

· Thank God for each opportunity to serve, support and forgive people.

Yours in Christ

- Stephen Kennedy, Director of Religious Studies