From the College Principal

Newsletter 9 2024

Dear Members of the St Andrews College Community,

As we pass the midpoint of Term 2 I would like to thank all the staff, student leaders and students for their dedication and application. We are fortunate to have the staff who always put their hand up to facilitate and experience for the students, many that other schools do not have. Diving comes to mind, but there are many more. At present we are seeking expressions of interest in our History trip to Europe in 2025. Our student leaders are continuing to develop ideas to further develop our St Andrews community. They inspire me daily.

It’s All About Learning

Reading Reflection: Connecting Paul with Genesis in the Bible:

Jeff Cavins offers a reflection on the story of the Fall of Man in Genesis for the Sunday of the 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. In his reflection, he encourages us, along with St. Paul, to shift our attention towards things that are unseen and enduring, rather than being solely preoccupied with transient matters.

Sin and Blaming:

A homily for the 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B from Bishop Robert Barron. The first chapters of Genesis, particularly the third chapter which we read today, present an exceptionally rich depiction of who we are, our calling, and the challenges we face. It is within these chapters that we find a profound understanding of Jesus and his work, as they shed light on the immediate aftermath of original sin—experiencing alienation, shame, self-centeredness, and engaging in scapegoating.

Disobedience and Hope in the Garden of Eden:

On the 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, we see God confronting Adam and Eve after their disobedience in the Garden of Eden. They had eaten the forbidden fruit, and now they faced the consequences. God tells them what will happen because of their actions, but He also gives a promise.

In Genesis 3:9-15, God speaks of an offspring who will crush the serpent's head. This points to Jesus, who will overcome sin and death. Despite their disobedience, there is hope for the future. God’s promise shows His love and mercy.

This story reminds us that sin has consequences. When we disobey God, it affects our lives. But God’s promise of redemption is always there. He never leaves us without hope.

Faith and Hardship:

In 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1, Paul talks about faith during difficult times. He encourages believers to stay strong. Despite the hardships they face, they look forward to eternal glory.

Paul reminds us that our troubles are temporary. They prepare us for eternal life with God. Our focus should be on what is unseen and eternal.

This passage encourages us to keep our faith strong. No matter what challenges we face, we trust in God’s promises. Our hope in eternal life gives us strength.

Redefining Family:

In Mark 3:20-35, Jesus faces opposition. His own family and religious leaders accuse Him of being possessed by evil. Jesus uses this moment to teach an important lesson.

Jesus says that those who do the will of God are His true family. This means that spiritual kinship is more important than blood relations. Obedience to God makes us part of Jesus' family.

We are invited to examine our own understanding of community and spiritual kinship. We are called to embrace our fellow believers as brothers and sisters in Christ, irrespective of societal or familial divisions. Through this redefinition of family, we are challenged to extend the boundaries of our love, acknowledging the unity we share as part of God's spiritual family.

Facing Opposition:

Jesus faced many challenges during His ministry. His own family did not understand Him. Religious leaders opposed Him. Despite this, Jesus stayed focused on His mission.

We, too, may face opposition in our lives. People may not understand our faith. They might challenge us. But like Jesus, we must remain committed to God’s will.

The readings for the 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B remind us to stay strong in our faith. We have hope in God’s promises. We are part of His family when we follow His commands.

As we reflect on these readings, let us remember God’s love and mercy. Despite our failures, He offers us hope. By staying strong in our faith and doing His will, we become part of His true family.

Year 12 Visual Art Major Works Night:

Last Wednesday I had the pleasure of attending the Year 12 Visual Art Major work review/progress night. Johnny Romeo (art expert and former teacher of St Andrews College), experienced art teachers from other schools and our wonderful Art Faculty were in attendance. Mrs Kemal (Year 12 Art teacher) has really developed the class to a point where they are well beyond other schools in their progress. Mrs Harris (Art Leader of Learning) was also one of the markers and we appreciate her leadership. Congratulations to the students who did so well. Thank you to Mr Finnerty, Mr Kolek, Ms Rivera and Mr McLoughlan for their attendance and support.

Debating after Round 6:

We have just completed the last of our preliminary rounds of Debating and it was inspirational to see how much the students have developed across the six weeks. The hard work that they have put in listening to feedback from adjudicators, attending workshops held by Mr Dewar and Ms Douglas on Thursday’s, and observing how others are presenting their views has been a credit to the team. I am also appreciative of the organisation from Ms Douglas and the team of staff and student helpers through adjudicating, being a Chairperson, being a timekeeper, assisting with catering, and observing. You are the reason why we have such a strong Debating and Public Speaking culture at the College. We now have two undefeated teams and two teams that should progress to the Eliminations. We wish them all the best in the Finals.

Unity Day Rehearsals:

Thank you to the many staff and students who have been busy preparing for Unity Day in the upcoming weeks. We really appreciate the hard work and coordination efforts that go into ensuring the day is a success.

Shakespeare at St Andrews:

Congratulations to the Year 8 Team who made it to the finals of the Shakespeare Carnival last weekend. We are very proud of your video and your growth as performers.

Sporting Successes:

Congratulations to Mrs Weaver and the Diving Team on all the hard work that is going on behind the scenes with the Diving Team and congratulations on a successful All Schools Competition last week.

Congratulations to our teams as they move into Week 4 of the Winter Competitions. Some very comprehensive results all round. Keep up the training and hard work.

‘It’s All About Learning’

Fidem in Christo

Dr Stephen Kennaugh
Principal