Dear Parents & Caregivers,
Welcome back to Term 2. I trust that families enjoyed the fine weather over the Easter break and found time to relax and connect. Easter Sunday marked the resurrection of Jesus and is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It signifies the fulfillment of God’s intent for human redemption and offers believers the promise of eternal life. This eternal life requires a rejection of the belief that choosing not to sin, is opting for less happiness, rather prayerfully accepting the belief in the better promises God has made to us, in alignment with His will. The promise of redemption comes with immense joy as Christians celebrate the victory of light over dark and life over death, signifying the triumph of God’s unconditional love for humanity. Easter Sunday highlights the transformative power of faith, God’s grace and the eternal message of hope that resonates throughout the ages.
The girls have certainly returned with enthusiasm and spirit this week, which is so lovely to see. On the last day of Term 1, the students participated in the annual Frog Jog. Whilst this activity is helpful for our cross-country efforts, it is also a wonderful and fun-filled fundraising event. I am pleased to share that our community managed to raise $13,075 for Caritas and Mercy Works. Caritas is the Catholic Church’s international aid and development agency. They fundraise through locally led programs to share hope and compassion and address poverty, working towards a world where all can thrive and reach their potential. The commitment to raising funds for those on the margins is a testament to our Mercy values of compassion, service, and justice. Thank you to all those who donated to the appeal.
The theme of ‘giving back’ has continued throughout the week as we saw the launch of the Year 7 Mercy Service Program, extending an invitation to students to engage in acts of service within their families. Students were tasked with undertaking weekly activities, going above and beyond what may usually be expected, without expectation of a reward. Examples include assisting with additional household chores, organising clothing donations for charity, and participating in community volunteer work. The College placed flags at half-mast this week to mourn, respect and acknowledge all those impacted by the terrible tragedy at Bondi Junction, we continue to keep them in our prayers.
Earlier this year I asked Parents to share their perception of Mercedes College across various domains. A snapshot of the answers to question about our perceived strengths as a community can be seen below. It was pleasing to read that our parent body believes that pastoral care of the students and the sense of community are distinct strengths of Mercedes College. These themes are consistent across the student voice and staff voice, showing alignment within our community.
The College is preparing for our school production of ‘Bring It On’ in the Regal Theatre – Friday 26 to Sunday 28 July. Tickets are selling fast. Families are encouraged to book as soon as possible. It promises to be an amazing show. Get your tickets through Ticketek here! Use code CAMPBELL for exclusive Mercedes College pricing.
A whole school ANZAC ceremony was held here at the College last Tuesday, which highlighted the importance and significance of ANZAC day. We were delighted to welcome Major Stephen Muir to our community where he spoke to the girls about the poignant stories of three teenage soldiers and their incredible sacrifices, reminding our students of the youthfulness of many who served. Thank you to everyone involved in arranging this event, specifically Tim Poga, HOLA – Social Sciences.
I am pleased to be able to share with our community details regarding the appointment of Louisa Rennie as the next Chief Executive Officer of Mercy Education Ltd (MEL). Click here to view the correspondence from Georgina Smith, Board Chair.
Wishing everyone a wonderful couple of weeks ahead, as we move further into Term 2.
DR LUCIE MCCRORY
Principal