Churchill Avenue News

“To know neither country nor creed, but to serve all justly and impartially” – Caroline Chisholm, St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney on Easter Sunday, April 11^th 1841.

When wishing to convey to our College community the purpose of the Mission Team, I thought it is best to start with the words of our College’s patron, Caroline Chisholm. Her vision was to offer all members of society the same respect, love and dignity irrespective of any religious, cultural or material differences. We, as the Mission Team, strive with a similar ambition to offer service to our College community in the spirit of respect, love and dignity for all.

The Mission Team has two major functions, firstly, the Faith & Mission portfolio oversees many programs such as: reflection days and retreats, social justice and fundraising, sustainability, sacramental preparation, liturgies and masses, student leadership, and the house co-curricular program. This is an intentionally broad team that ensures faith education and our Catholic ethos is embedded into all areas of the College.

The second portfolio is Community Services. This is a newer team that brings together many staff who provide invaluable service and support to students and families alike. This team includes our nurses, counsellors, youth workers, social workers, multi-cultural education aids, and family partnerships. It is through this team that many of our young people receive the additional support they need to grow and flourish in our College.

Connecting our work in the Mission Team with our motto, Many Minds One Heart, I wish to offer a brief explanation to the centrality of the heart. In our College’s history and charism we place a strong emphasis on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This is the heart that loves us, the heart that was pierced on the cross in loving sacrifice, and the heart that beats with a similar humanity to our own. Jesus taught us that when loving our neighbour it requires a certain amount of humility, sacrifice and relationship. It is these sentiments we draw from the heart of Jesus into our work in the Mission Team.

In conclusion, allow me to leave you with the words of Fr Andre Coindre, after whom our College chapel in named. For the young “a safe haven must be found”, a sheltered harbour in which they may grow and learn, laugh and play. The many works of the Mission Team work towards this common goal, to create in our College an atmosphere of safety, security and support in which every young person can flourish. Be assured of our prayers and best work for your young people, and likewise, we ask for your prayers and support in our endeavours as the Mission Team.

Tristan O'Brien
Deputy Principal - Mission