From Br Steve Hogan fsc
We began the year with our theme 鈥楢im for the Stars鈥�, motivated by the words of JFK in his famous Rice Moon speech, given at Rice University, Houston, Texas, on the 12th September 1962,
鈥溾�� we do things not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organise and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win鈥�.
It is hard to believe we now only have two weeks left of school until the Christmas/Summer vacation. This time of the year is a very busy time for schools. Teachers and department heads are reviewing their annual plans, completing their reporting to line managers, and from these conversations, planning for 2025. However, whilst essential and important, the true test of a successful school is the subsequent life of the students; the kind of people they become, the extent to which they are fulfilling their potential, using their gifts and talents to the best of their ability, for the betterment of all.
At 蜜桃影像, we have a rich tradition of Christian and Lasallian wisdom to guide us how to live and conduct our lives. When we are using our talents to the best of our ability, we are fulfilling God鈥檚 plan, we are bringing to fullness the potential of creation.
Advent and the season of Christmas, recognising the birth of Jesus, is an important reminder each year of our own part in this incarnate story as we develop our skills and talents and fulfill the potential of creation. When we are anything less, the world is less, and opportunities are lost. Archbishop Oscar Romero says 鈥淕ood education must result in young people being not only gifted and accomplished but also wise and holy. This is what we are about: We plant seeds that grow. We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold the future promise.鈥�
Teaching is not only a noble profession but also a great privilege. As I stand at the end of the drive each afternoon, I recall how the faces before me have grown and matured over the year; how they have risen to the challenge we have placed before them as they have aimed for the stars. I am both very proud of their efforts and humbled by their achievements.
I would like to conclude by recognising the incredible talent and achievement of our students both in the more recognisable fields of academics, music, dance, drama, and sports, but also in the fields of speech and debating, service and mission, velour, and virtue. In recognising these fine achievements of our students, I am particularly conscious of, and give recognition to, the dedication and expertise of all members of staff.
Because a thing is difficult for you, do not therefore suppose it to be beyond mortal power. On the contrary, if anything is possible and proper for man to do, assume that it must fall within your own capacity. (Marcus Aurelius)
Live Jesus in our hearts. Forever.
Br Steve Hogan fsc
Principal
