Centenary Opening School Mass and Picnic
In brilliant sunshine on St Michael's Green, we celebrated our Centenary Year Opening School Mass and Picnic. According to tradition, current Year 12 students brought the youngest members of the School community, our Preparatory class, to Mass. It is always a moving sight as it represents the journey our students take as they move through the year levels, as well as the wonderful connection and nurturing care the students show to one another.
During the Opening Mass, Father John Martis SJ blessed the silver crosses that are worn by our Captains of School and represent the leadership of faith and service they provide to the student cohort. We were delighted that past School Captain and current staff member, Judy Quin, passed over the crosses to our 2024 Captains of School, Charlotte and Clare, who then jointly shared a reflection on their hopes for 2024, the Loreto Year of Sincerity. Fr John then invited us to pray for each other and for the difference we can make as people of Sincerity in our world, whilst our student musicians, readers and singers led our participation in a spirit of heartfelt thanksgiving.
At the close of our Mass, the staff members and all students from Preparatory – Year 12 enjoyed a wonderful Centenary Picnic lunch. Groups gathered on the lawn, sharing picnic blankets under shady umbrellas, whilst others enjoyed vintage games, with members of Loreto Unplugged singers and Stage Band providing musical entertainment. The festivities ended with an ice-cream before students and staff returned to classes.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this special day.