Advent Prayer

Lord Jesus,

send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day.

We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.

To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!”

Amen.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff and parents for your support through this year.

In what has been a school year like no other, I take pride in the professional way our staff responded to the many challenges that the pandemic brought. In what was a very difficult set of circumstances that fostered much uncertainty around how schools could ensure a continuity of quality learning, our College responded very well, thanks to the determination and commitment of staff and the support of our parents.

As I write to you for the last time as the Principal of Edmund Rice College, I cannot help but feel how privileged I have been for the last nine years to lead this wonderful community. In many ways the manner in which the College community responded to COVID-19 this year defines the strengths of Edmund Rice College – a strong learning culture, robust systems, a dedicated teaching staff and a concerted effort to offer support for the boys in the face of difficult social challenges that the pandemic presented.

In short Edmund Rice College is a warm, vibrant and inclusive community. I am most grateful for the relationships and support of staff, students and parents.

I have a strong sense that the College’s reputation as a welcoming, relational and happy place where staff and students have a genuine pride in their school will stand it in good stead in future years. Most importantly, the benefits of an Edmund Rice Education in respects to the holistic development of fine young men and the excellent outcomes for student’s post school suggest a point of difference for parents choosing Edmund Rice for their son’s schooling.

I wish you all a joyful and peaceful Christmas and New Year.

School returns on Thursday 28 January 2021    for Year 7, Year 12 students and Peer Support leaders in Year 11, with all remaining students to return on Friday 29 January 2021

Peter McGovern

Principal