Religious Education/ Faith Development

Religious Education and Faith Development

The College was established for the “human and Christian education of youth, especially the poor”. The era in which we live does not seem to value faith and religious education. Yet, this area of the young men’s development is as crucial as it has always been. From Year 7 to Year 12, from an understanding of our Founder, St John Baptist De La Salle, to the workings of their local parish, from biblical and modern prophets to a deeper understanding of the Eucharist, from a comparison of the Infancy narratives to ethical principles, the Religious Education program of the College tries to prepare our young men for their future as well as give them a greater understanding of our faith. Other activities and opportunities, such as visits to Sacred Heart Mission, Lasallian Service, retreats, prayer, meditation and whole school Masses help the faith development of the young men entrusted to our care. None of this could happen without the commitment and energy of many mem-

Year 8s at their end of year Mass

bers of staff — those who teach RE, Year Level Coordinators, Homeroom teachers, College Chaplain Mrs Joan Ferguson, Mr Des Calleja, Lasallian Youth Minister, as well as the creative genius of Ms Mary Finn, Mr David Happ, Ms Cindy Frost, Mr Andrew Murrell and our other music staff. In working “together and by association” in this vital area, the staff wish to guide the young men towards the full life to which we are all called. This year the College has undergone a review to develop a School Improvement Framework for 2010–2013. In seeking always to improve what we do, a major goal over the next four years in the field of education in faith is to provide more sacramental and prayer opportunities for both students and staff.

Mr Patrick Jurd Coordinator