28th August 2012 Reflection The Event of Grace When someone experiences laughter or tears, bears responsibility, stands by the truth, breaks through the egoism in his or her life with other people; where someone hopes against hope, faces the shallowness and stupidity of the daily rush and bustle with humour and patience, refusing to become embittered; where someone learns to be silent and in the inner silence lets the harsh thought in his or her heart die rather than spread outwards; in a world where someone lives as he or she would like to live, combating his or her own egoism and the continual temptation to inner despair– there is the event of grace. (Karl Rahner)
Last Tuesday marked our annual Celebration Day. The day began with Mass in our local parishes. I had the opportunity and pleasure to attend Mass at St Dominic’s with the many students from that parish. It was very encouraging to see the number of students in attendance and participating. It was a similar experience at the other parish masses. Upon return to the College the students had the opportunity to take part in a range of activities. This year we increased the number of activities and food options for students. The jumping castles proved very popular but not as popular as the dunking machine. Many students and some staff relished the opportunity to drop a teacher in the cold water of the dunking machine. A DJ and our very own CRC Has Got Talent provided entertainment in the hall. The VCAL students and Celebration Day Planning Committee are to be congratulated for their efforts and time devoted to organise the day. We have managed to raise approximately $4000 that will be divided equally between Bro Beausang College, Nairobi Kenya, Royal Children’s Hospital, the local Christmas Giving Tree and Children in Detention. The behaviour of students on the day was excellent. The owners and workers of the jumping castles commented to me at the end of the day how well mannered and behaved our students were. You could see the enjoyment and fun on the faces of many students as I walked around the school. I have passed on these comments and feedback to Mr Sheehan who no doubt is very proud of the students. We continue to receive positive news of the progress he is making in his recovery.
As you may be aware there has been media coverage regarding the Independent Education Union (IEU) calling for members to support their State union counterparts in stop work action on September 5. We will inform you of the impact this may have on the school when more detail is known. Attached to this newsletter is a response from the Catholic Education Commission of Victoria (CECV). Last Friday, the staff of CRC gathered for the yearly Faith Day. Cath Connelly, a facilitator specializing in Celtic music and spirituality, engaged the staff with her stories and entrancing playing of her Celtic harp. It was a wonderful day to refresh and reflect on our roles as educators, to hold an internal focus, and confirm with our colleagues that together we are part of a vital community here at CRC Melton. Robert Blackley Acting Principal
P & F Meeting The next P & F Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 29th August at 7.30pm in the Conference room.