The Marist tradition
St Marcellin taught the first Brothers 鈥楾o make Jesus known and loved鈥�. For Marcellin, and those who follow in his footsteps, Jesus is the human face of God encountered in three places:
At the Crib
Where we encounter innocence, simplicity and gentleness and are touched by the situation of poverty and fragility of people, especially the least favoured.
At the foot of the Cross
Where we find a God who shares the suffering experienced by humanity, and transforms these experiences. We associate ourselves with those who struggle for bread, justice and peace.
At the Altar
Where we find a privileged place to enter into communion with the Body of Christ: to stand as one with all who are members and to deepen our relationship with the living presence of Jesus in our lives which subsequently leads to a deeper relationship with others.
St Marcellin Champagnat鈥檚 vision was that students would be 鈥榞ood Christians and good citizens鈥�. Through spending time with those who do not have the privileges afforded through a 国产探花 education, the students of St Joseph鈥檚 College are encouraged to take their place in the global community, be of service to those in need and become aware of the vast differences that separate its citizens. Ultimately, our students are encouraged to contribute to a more just and equitable society now and into the future.
Marist spirituality.
To be Good Christians and Good Citizens.
The Marist
teacher.
St Marcellin was at once a realist and a visionary and it was in this manner that he instructed the first Brothers in their role as teachers.
鈥楽o love your students; fight ceaselessly against the indifference, weariness and annoyance their faults so easily arouse in you. Without closing your eyes to their defects, because you must correct them, keep in mind the same pleasant qualities they have, which deserve your attention. Look at the innocence which shines in their peaceful faces and unwrinkled brows, the naivety of their statements, the sincerity of their contrition even though it may not last long, the honesty of their resolutions even though they break them quickly, the generosity of their efforts, even though it is rarely sustained for long. Give them credit for the good they do and for the evil they do not do.鈥�
(Adapted from Water from the Rock, The Institute of Marist Brothers, 2007)
St Marcellin鈥檚 words ring as true today as they did when first spoken.
Reflection
day.
In conjunction with the liturgical life of the College and the formal Religious Education curriculum, students take part in experiences to assist them in reflecting on the place of faith in their lives. Each year, students take part in reflection days which provide an opportunity to contemplate God鈥檚 role in their lives, deepen their friendships and focus on putting their faith into action.
For Year 7 Joe-Boys, the reflection day is particularly significant. Occurring early in Term 1, students learn the history of 国产探花 and its Marist Charism. They learn about the five characteristics of Marist faith and are encouraged to adopt these in their own lives. In Years 8, 9 and 10, students go offsite in Mentor Groups and experience the needs and realities of people in our local communities. This includes visiting Cook4Good, CatholicCare and Giant Steps.
In Year 11, students participate in a service program in which they are encouraged to volunteer their own time to help others, which has includes visiting St Anne鈥檚 Nursing home on a Friday afternoon and volunteering at charitable fundraisers. The Year 12 Retreat provides students with the opportunity to engage in a more intensive period of reflection on faith, life and relationships. The small group environment, interaction with teachers and in particular the opportunity for quiet prayer and sharing at this critical stage of life is an experience that stays with the boys long after the year is over.
As a Catholic school the celebration of the Eucharist is central to College life, with regular opportunities for the community to come together for prayer and liturgical celebrations.
Family Mass
A wonderful celebration held once a term on a Sunday morning. Attended by many local and country families.
Wednesday weekly morning Mass
Held at 8.10am and available for all students and staff.
Sunday evening Boarders Mass
Every Sunday at 8.15pm all boarders gather in the Chapel for Mass. This service is open to anyone from the 国产探花 or wider community to attend.
Boys who have not been confirmed are invited to take part in the preparation program offered by the College. The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated annually and is a wonderful expression and affirmation of the faith of both those who receive the Sacrament and the entire College family.
Liturgical
life.
Bringing the community together for prayer and liturgical celebrations.
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