Dear Partners,

It is great to be back with you for the rest of term.

On a recent trip to South Australia I was struck by a sense of personal positivity. 

I initially thought that this sensation resulted from the fact that I had extended the long weekend by a day and so, was excited by the prospect of time away.  Upon reflection and after discussing with my husband, who was having similar feelings, we came to this realisation; our sense of positivity was the result of human encounter.   In the street, in hotels and restaurants, and in various shops, people were constantly smiling at us and engaging in simple greetings and acknowledgements.

I was reminded of Peter Mitchell who developed “Making Jesus Real” (MJR).  MJR is a teaching resource initially developed for Tasmanian Catholic Schools and now the centrepiece of many school philosophies across Australia.  Peter built MJR for students to enhance their encounter with Jesus in everyday life. He underpins MJR with the notion of finding “God Moments” in our daily journey.  Peter calls for nightly reflection on moments of wonder and awe in nature and creation, he challenges you to find the wisdom, beauty and love in the human encounters that come your way each day. 

MJR hangs on the importance of that short evening reflection where the “God Moments” are recalled and thanks are offered.  Another of Peter’s fundamental tenets is that “the little things are the big things”, a core value that the smiles and greetings in South Australia reminded me of.   Eye contact, using someone’s name, enquiring about how you are going and waiting for the response ...making Jesus real.

I encourage you to enjoy the wonder often hidden in the little things.  I challenge you to find the “God Moments” in your day as you simultaneously create “God Moments” for those you encounter. 

On the subject of “God Moments”, beautiful human encounters abounded during the Kindergarten Orientation last Friday.  It was great to engage with our 2020 kindies, all bright eyed and bushy-tailed. Thank you to Mrs Vezinias, Miss Costello, Mrs Bartholomeusz, Mrs Cardamone, and their team of helpers who made everyone feel welcome and informed about our wonderful community.

Have a great weekend and thanks again for your warm welcome (it was a “God Moment” for me!).  

Mrs Kerrin Cronin

Acting Principal