Principal’s Blog: Holy Cross College
A Prayer for the Fifth Sunday in Lent
Merciful God,
You showed us the depth of your love through your Son’s willingness to suffer for our salvation. As we journey through these final days of Lent, Help us to follow Christ’s example of selfless love and forgiveness. Open our hearts to receive your grace, That we may approach Easter with renewed faith and hope.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Community News
It is with great joy that I share the wonderful news of Miss Georgina Pratt’s new arrival! Baby Billie Rose has entered the world, and I’m delighted to report that both Miss Pratt and Billie are doing well. Our Holy Cross community extends our warmest congratulations and blessings to Miss Pratt during this precious time.
I also wish to share news regarding our Year 7 Inter-Relationships Leader (IRL), Mr Chris Spencer. Mr Spencer has been successful in entering into a new career direction outside of the Education sector. Chris has been an exceptional leader and one that Holy Cross College will miss dearly. Mr Spencer will use Term Two to facilitate an extensive handover as his final day will be the end of Semester one. A new IRL Leader will be announced in Term Two to replace Mr. Spencer.
Strategic Goals Update
In Term One, the College has made excellent progress with our Strategic Goal of implementing universal routines and structures for our Junior School and Middle/Senior School. The feedback from stakeholders has been positive as we aim to provide an optimum learning environment for students. I thank parents for their feedback as we continually strive to work in partnership to build upon the standards we have for our community. This important work will continue in Term Two as we further refine these practices.
Australian Catholic Youth Festival 2025
I would like to strongly encourage our Year 9-12 students to apply for the Australian Catholic Youth Festival tour scheduled for November/December 2025. Melbourne is hosting this inspiring event that brings together young Catholics from across the country for days of worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth. The theme promises to make this an unforgettable experience that will deepen your faith and connect you with other young Catholics. I encourage interested students to speak with their RE teachers for more information.
Gospel Challenge: Compassion Without Judgment
This week’s Gospel reading (John 8:1-11) tells the powerful story of Jesus and the woman caught in making poor choices. When confronted by those ready to stone her according to the law, Jesus challenges them: “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” One by one, they leave, until Jesus tells the woman, “Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again.”
My challenge to our students this week is twofold:
First, consider how quick we can be to judge others without examining our own hearts. Before pointing out the faults in others, take a moment for self-reflection.
Second, practice Jesus’ compassionate approach. When you encounter someone who has made a mistake, offer them the opportunity for a fresh start rather than condemnation.
This week, I invite each student to perform one act of compassion towards someone you might have judged too harshly. In doing so, you’ll be living out Christ’s message and our College values of justice and compassion.
Warm regards,
Mr. Albert Borrello
Principal, Holy Cross College
