Earlier in the term, half of the Year 8 cohort participated in their Faith Formation Day themed “The NOW of God,” inspired by Pope Francis’ invitation for young people to encounter God in the present moment. The day encouraged students to recognise that holiness is lived through the choices and opportunities of today as they journeyed through Melbourne’s Catholic heritage sites.
Students visited St Patrick’s Cathedral, where they explored the beauty and majesty of Australia’s largest church. Many were captivated by the stained-glass windows and the light streaming through them, a reminder that God shines through each of us. They also visited St Francis’ Church, the first Catholic church in Victoria. What began as a church among the gum trees now stands in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. Despite the hustle and bustle outside, students experienced a peaceful time of reflection and Eucharistic adoration within its walls, praying in the very place where St Mary MacKillop was baptised.
As part of the day, students learned about our two homegrown women of faith, St Mary MacKillop and Venerable Sr Mary Glowrey. Alternate groups visited the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre and the Glowrey Museum, deepening their understanding of these courageous women who lived their own “now of God” with faith and zeal. A special highlight for the Glowrey Museum group was hearing from Sr Mary Glowrey’s grandniece, whose personal insights enriched the experience.
The day concluded with students returning to school with a greater appreciation of Melbourne’s Catholic story and a renewed awareness that God works through ordinary people. We look forward to providing the same enriching experience for the rest of the Year 8 cohort later this term.
Below is a testimony from Akshera S, 8KO sharing her account of the day.
Faith Formation was great; I learnt a lot. It began with a trip via bus to St. Patricks, where we embarked on several quests on the booklets given to us. The quests were fun. Everyone had split into small groups and explored the chapels. My favourite was the Holy Soul’s chapel; the windows were stunning to look at. Outside, we explored several statues of known saints-one even being my primary school (St George Preca)!
Soon, we split off from the other class we came with and learnt about St. Mary Mackillop. The other class learnt about Sr. Mary Glowrey. I did notice that not so subtle fact that two of our school buildings are named after them! Then, we walked through the city and reached St. Francis Church. We spent the rest of the time reflecting on the day-and eventually visiting the chapel for Mary, and it was very nice.
What really stood out to me the entire journey was when the lady told us that anyone of us could be a saint, as we are all called to follow God! While I may not be able to do something as great as found over seven hundred schools, across a country/continent, I know that even something simple as prayer will guide us through our journey with God.
