By Mrs Liisa Hammond, Principal

Gospel Mark 9: 2-10

Mark’s Gospel reveals a pivotal moment within our Lenten journey – the transfiguration of Jesus. Jesus takes Peter and James up to Table Mountain, where they experience the revelation of Jesus’s divine glory, supported by Moses and Elijah.
Similar to the Assumption of Mary, the Transfiguration of Jesus is hard for some of us to contextualise. A guy on a mountain with two of his mates, suddenly having his clothes becoming dazzling white and two dead guys appearing beside him … you could relate to Peter and James having a “what the?” moment, right?
Nonetheless, if we are able to interpret this narrative as being symbolic of transformation or of spiritual enlightenment, then perhaps it is easier to understand. We often challenge our students to “be the face of Jesus” for each other, to recognise that when we act with compassion, generosity, justice, and wisdom, then for that moment, we are recognised as being Jesus for those of whom we are interacting. To be transformational is to inspire and motivate, to create positive change, through connection, guidance and support. The secret; however, is that people have to be ready for the transformation to occur. Jesus was careful to choose Peter and James, as they were receptive to the experience. Just as the Year 12s' theme, Sower of Seeds, tells us that seeds require the right conditions to grow and produce crops, our hearts and minds must be open and receptive to transformational experiences that deepen our understanding and connection to our spirituality and our growth.
We have to be ready to act and receive the grace that is bestowed upon us. We have to ensure that our actions are transformational for others – that we commit to being the face of Jesus as we act with compassion, generosity, justice and wisdom. Pope Francis urges us to see that Lent is the perfect time for this to occur – to not just sacrifice superficial items, but to be transformational for each other, to “… focus on living in peace and harmony, overcoming divisions and learning, to live in fraternity with humility …” and to recognise that, “… Lent is a powerful season, a turning point that can strengthen change …” through truth and love.

Parents and Friends Committee

On Monday, 19 February 2024, Assumption College’s Parents and Friends Committee (P&F) held its first meeting. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend, owing to the fact that I was in Toowoomba at TCS’s Leadership Forum. I have been informed that there was rigorous conversation and that there were several new faces.
I appreciate every member of our community who gives so freely of their time to ensure that the operational practices and lived experiences of our current students are defined by the terms quality, challenge and success.
I look forward to our next meeting, where we have been asked to discuss issues of inclusivity, in particular our commitment to our First Nations students and their families, as well as our sense of unity as one nation, one Spirit, united through our values of generosity, wisdom, compassion, and justice.
All are welcome – 11 March 2024, 6:00pm at the Staff lunchroom.

Isabella Sullivan and the National Indigenous Business Summer School (NIBSS)

Dear Mrs Hammond and staff,
Thank you so much for the well wishes for the National Indigenous Business Summer School (NIBSS). During the week I experienced many incredible sites and made many life-long friendships which span across Australia. Throughout the week, I participated in many cultural walks and heard amazing explanations of the local area, including La Perouse and Redfern. We learned about the local Dharawal Language at the Gujaga Foundation, and some weaving techniques from Aunty Clare. Then we visited the Commonwealth Bank to learn about the unlimited opportunities for First Nations students. These experiences have taught me that the pathways for First Nations students are endless.
Let's not forget about First Nations Response who presented us with our case study; to create a fundraising campaign for a “National Breakfast Club.” This opportunity to work with industry professionals and gain personal feedback was priceless.
I would like to finish this summary with a quote from Sarah Hyland, the leading Charted Indigenous Accounting firm in Australia; “If you see a need, be the change and fix it.”
Thank you,
Issy Sullivan

May our Mother Mary grant her blessings upon our College Community.