In Sunday’s Gospel reading, the image of the shepherd is used to convey the unconditional loving relationship God experiences with humankind. The reading speaks of the shepherd knowing the sheep by name, and the sheep knowing the voice of the shepherd – “the sheep follow him, because they know his voice.”

Essentially, the reading is about building trust by consistently ‘turning up’. Our consistency in ‘turning up’ builds trust and surety.  As educators, parents and caregivers, primarily, this is our role. We turn up, we set boundaries and expectations, we follow through, and we love unconditionally, even when those boundaries may be crossed. We do this so that the young people we journey with may live fulfilling lives. In our College staff meeting conducted this week, this practice was referenced as consistent predictable routines.

Like the shepherd, God’s gift to us is to be people who live fulfilling lives, enriched through a loving relationship which is consistent and predictable. Unlike the thieves mentioned in the Gospel, the sheep recognise their falsity and do not respond, rather they follow the voice of the shepherd. This is true for young people and adults – young people recognise the authenticity of those who consistently turn up, and love unconditionally.

John 10:10 is one of the most recalled Bible verses from the four Gospels. The word ‘abundantly’ is so beautifully defined as "in large quantities; plentifully”. All that God does for us and the depth of God’s love for us is to ensure that our lives are abundant – plentiful and good in large quantities!

I am proud to see that there are so many authentic humans who consistently ‘turn up’ for the students of OLSCC bringing with them consistent predictable routines. Whether it be to lead them in the musical or a sporting team, or offer extra tutorial or assistance with study. These small, yet consistent gestures are consistent predictable routines that enable those in our care to thrive and flourish, and experience life in abundance.

THE LITTLE MERMAID

Last Friday and Saturday saw the culmination of months of preparation for the College musical, ‘The Little Mermaid Jr’. It truly was a pleasure from start to finish. There was a palpable joy in the air, and it was great to see the production so well supported by so many staff, students and their families.

I sincerely thank all those who were involved, particularly the cast and crew who dedicated so much time into ensuring a polished performance. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Director, Miss Tamara Creeley; Crew – Mr Casey Setch, Mrs Katrina Walton, Miss Amie Stolz, Mr Upul Jayakodi, Mr Subin Sebastian; Sets – Mr David De Costa-Silva; and Cameo – Mrs Cate Brennan. Thank you also to groundstaff, Mr Nathan Pretorius and Mr Anthony Pope, for their assistance.

And to all our students – what a great talent you are! Thank you for sharing your gifts with us and delighting us with your performance!!!

I think the message of the musical is quite pertinent: if we work toward following our dreams, no matter how big or small they may be, we will eventually see our dreams come true – in spite of the challenges that life may present. And at the end of the day, through characters like Ariel’s sisters, Father, Sebastian and Flounder, Ariel knew the experience of unconditional love.

ANZAC DAY

Last Monday afternoon, the College community stopped to reflect on the important occasion that is ANZAC Day. It was wonderful to hear from esteemed past student, Jack Appleton, a serving test pilot for the Royal Australian Air Force, who addressed all those gathered on the importance of ANZAC Day and the ANZAC story and what this means to him in the work he undertakes.

On Tuesday, many of our OLSCC community gathered to participate in the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, march, wreath laying and commemoration at ANZAC Park in Dalby. I know of other staff and students who also gathered at other memorials being hosted across the region. ANZAC day is a timely reminder that we are part of something bigger than ourselves and our actions, no matter how big or small, contribute to a greater whole.

I am confident that those young men who jumped out of small boats on the shores of Gallipoli, to climb the treacherous terrain, dodging bullets at every turn on that bleary April morning in 1915, would have had no idea that they were pivotal in forging the identity of a nation. A nation that proudly declares, is built on mateship, courage, and sacrifice.

As it is with any community, the individual actions of a few can, at times greatly influence the broader perception of said community. So, for those who did avail themselves to give up part of your public holiday to represent our OLSCC community, your actions greatly influence the broader perception of this community and the esteem which is held for this College. Thank you for giving of yourselves to reflect on those who gave completely of themselves.

We will remember them. Lest we forget.

STAFFING

We welcome Mr Brian Chiverton who joins OLSCC this week, working with the grounds and maintenance team.

Blessings for the coming weeks.