The year level retreat programme has continued with retreats for Years 10 and 11; run in partnership with the National Evangelization Team (NET) from the Diocese. The theme for year 10 was, ‘Anchored’ and the year 11 theme was, ‘Look Again – Encountering Jesus.’ The days provided a genuine encounter, celebrating the joy of the Gospel and meaningful reflection in our Catholic Marist tradition.

The whole school gathered together in communion to receive the Eucharist this week on the Feast Day of the Ascension of the Lord. It was a great reminder for your school community that Jesus is always with us, in our hearts, through the spirit, through his example, through the Eucharist and, of course, through our own examples to one another. 

It was a pleasure to prepare and take students to the Pompallier Shield, the annual Diocesan Speech competition where St Paul’s College truly excelled this year. Placing in all of the categories, all of the students did very well. Congratulations to Josiah Vaai-Tupai who won the Senior Scripture Reading category and a special mention to Finn Lloyd who placed second in the Senior Oratory category, just one point behind first place.

In our Catholic tradition, the month of May is dedicated to Mary, our Good Mother. Through her example and model of discipleship, may we be especially inspired by Mary to find Jesus through this month. May we grow in the way of Mary and ask for her help for us to find Jesus.

Ki te wairua o whānaungatanga,

Kirstie Wearmouth