More than 600 were welcomed to the annual Catholic Schools Broken Bay Staff Mass with a traditional smoking ceremony and Uncle Gavi Duncan from MacKillop College.
A sacred ritual, the smoking ceremony is used for healing, welcoming visitors, and marking significant events.
This year’s CSBB Staff Mass, celebrated by Bishop Anthony Randazzo, was truly significant in the 40th anniversary year of the Diocese.
Director Danny Casey, principals, leaders, teachers, clergy, and staff were joined by volunteers and friends at St Leo’s Catholic College, Wahroonga.
The Mass was followed by the Commissioning of New Leaders including new principals and assistant principals, new RE Coordinators and new Early Learning Centre directors.
A number of schools leaders were awarded with certificates of service in Catholic education. Many having given 25 years to even 60 years of devoted service.
Julie Hearn, who has been at St Paul’s Catholic College Manly for more than 20 years, received her certificate for 50 years of service in Catholic education.
Julie has taught Maths, Science, Religious Education and is even a former and much admired rugby coach.
John Camilleri has been in Catholic education for 60 years. He retired a short time ago but after one year decided he still had a lot to give young people and is now back in the classroom.
“My dear brothers and sisters, as we celebrate this anniversary, might we renew our commitment to the mission that began forty years ago and continues with vigour today: to make Christ known in every classroom, every tuckshop, every sports field, every theatre or music room, every science lab, and every heart,” Bishop Anthony said.
“Together, let us look confidently to the future, with gratitude for the past, faith for the present, and hope for all that is yet to come.”
Read Bishop Anthony Randazzo's homily from the Mass in full here.
Bishop Anthony, Director of Catholic Schools Broken Bay, Danny Casey, and Uncle Gavi during the smoking ceremony
Students joined Uncle Gavi for the Acknowledgment of Country
Uncle Gavi addressing the gathering
Bishop Anthony at the Commissioning of New Leaders
Teachers who have devoted 25 years to Catholic education
Julie Hearn honoured for her 50 years of service to Catholic Education
John Camilleri receiving his certificate for 60 years of service from Bishop Anthony