School Newsletter 17 March 2023

17 March 2023

Our school motto, “Finding God in all things”, is at the heart of Ignatian spirituality. It is the principle that we can find God in every place, every person and everything. It’s about finding God in the ordinariness of everyday life, to become more aware of the presence of God accompanying us in our lives.

Sometimes we can rush through most of the day, not taking the time to find God in the ordinary. Some time ago, I remember my late grandmother having a phone installed at her house for the first time. It was modern for its time and cordless so she could carry it around the house with her if she wanted to. I remember though, whenever she made a phone call, she would take the time to sit down and focus only on the call and the person at the other end of the line. She would take the time to honour the other person on the line, to really listen to them; she would find God in the situation and the experience. My experience of observing my grandmother was to find God in her, taking the time to listen to somebody and truly devote her time to them. We can find God in everything when we look, finding the Kingdom of God in the here and now, in our midst.

Luke 17:20- 21 “Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.”

We are truly Blessed that the Establishment Board have chosen this motto for the college. It is a motto that is affirming for our children; that God is within them. It is affirming for society; that we can find God in others. It is affirming for the world; a special creation that we value and care for. It is hope-filled and loving to seek and find our living and present God around and amongst us.

Inveniendum Deus in omnibus.

Finding God in all things.

Progress as of March 12.  What a difference a few weeks make!

At St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College we have developed a curriculum vision that follows the ideals and aspirations of Catholic centres of educational excellence globally and one that  reflects our valued connection to our Jesuit family worldwide. We firmly believe that a high quality Catholic education is the path to a meaningful life of leadership and service.

At St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College we:

“Grow men and women for and with others through a broad and rich Ignatian curriculum that accompanies all learners in the pursuit of personal excellence.”

Following a strong and successful Ignatian educational model and tradition, we have developed a curriculum that prepares our students for the world as competent leaders, who can discern appropriately and are prepared to act. As they enter society, a St Ignatius student is a reflection of Gospel values and are genuine witnesses of Jesus Christ –   “How beautiful are the footsteps of those who bring good news” (Rom 10:15-17).

St Ignatius is charged with the formation of young men and women of ‘Competence, Conscience, Commitment and Compassion’ who will, in the words of Ignatius, ‘go forth and set the world on fire’. It is in relation to these four words – the four C’s, that we have identified the following cornerstones that support our curriculum vision:

• Broad and Rich
• For and with others
• Accompaniment
• Personal Excellence

Each of these will be explained and unpacked for you and your families in the weeks ahead.

Which House will you belong to?

This week we introduce to you the first of our House Patrons.

Xavier House

This house is named after Saint Francis Xavier SJ (1506-1552). He is the patron saint of Roman Catholic missions. Originally from Spain, he became one of St Ignatius of Loyola’s closest friends and original founding companion of the Society of Jesus.  His missionary work took him to India, Southeast Asia and Japan predominantly.  Xavier conducted all his work with great joy and enthusiasm but at times he suffered from feelings of loneliness and depression.  However, his unlimited confidence in God helped him to overcome obstacles. Xavier’s goal in life was not to be the best or the first, but to simply make an impact on the lives of others.  

His life of service is characterised by his belief that he was most of service to others when he was helping them to find God.  A description of him by one of the first companions says that:  I have never met anyone more filled with faith and hope, more open-minded than Francis. He never seems to lose his great joy and enthusiasm. He talks to both the good and the bad. Anything he is asked to do, Francis does willingly, simply because he loves everyone.

Follow this link to find out more about St Francis Xavier

Buses Update

As part of our care for each of our students it is important to ensure that everyone can travel safely to and from our College.  We are in the process of working with Brougham Buses to establish suitable daily bus services from Pukekohe, Takanini, Papakura and further afield which will serve our families and students.  Watch this space for updates going forward of exact routes, timings and costs.

Board Formation

Recently, Fr Chris Gleeson SJ ran a formation retreat for the St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College Board at Tyburn Monastery, a real privilege for all who attended. Fr Chris stopped off at the school site afterwards to take a look at the progress of the building works. We are truly blessed to be accompanied by the Jesuits as our school community grows and is formed as an Ignatian College.  

Fr Chris, Dean Wearmouth and John Gilbert are shown in the photo.

Over 8’s Baptism Programme

March 12 saw the completion of the Over 8’s Baptism programme.  During this session the young people and their families reflected on the paschal candle and the call to bring light into our world.  On Sunday March 26 those who have participated in the programme will be formally welcomed into the Church when they receive the Sacrament of Baptism.  We keep the young people and families who are preparing for Baptism in our thoughts and prayers over the coming weeks.