Parish News
As we entered the season of Advent on November 30, the Mercy Regional College community embraced this sacred time of waiting, preparing, and hoping for the coming of Christ. Advent invites us to recognise our Catholic identity as something living and active—an identity expressed not only in prayer and symbol, but through our relationships, decisions, and commitment to justice.
This year, our Advent focus highlights the heart of our Mercy charism: responding to the needs of others with compassion, courage, and hospitality. Catherine McAuley believed that love must always be translated into action—“The proof of love is deed.” Advent calls us into that same spirit of watchfulness and service.
Across the College, students and staff participated in Advent rituals and outreach initiatives that connect faith to everyday life. Lighting the Advent wreath, praying together, supporting St Vincent de Paul, and engaging in acts of kindness all help us prepare room in our hearts for Christ’s coming. These practices remind us that Christian hope is not passive. It is active, outward-looking, and deeply connected to the dignity of every person.
Advent challenges us to be a community that both celebrates the richness of our tradition and reads the signs of our times. In a world longing for peace, compassion, and unity, we are called to be bearers of light—people who bring hope to others through small, intentional actions. In this season of anticipation, may we embody the Mercy values of hospitality, courage, service, and justice. As we journey toward Christmas, may we remain attentive to the quiet movements of God in our school, our families and our wider community.
On Tuesday, December 2, the College community gathered for the Final Mass of Thanksgiving, a beautiful celebration marking the end of the 2025 school year. The theme, “Find Your Strength through Faith and Courage,” guided the prayer, reflection, and gratitude as we looked back on a year filled with growth, challenge and achievement.
Ryan House hosted the liturgy, honouring the legacy of Sr Beda Ryan and Dinny Ryan — whose humility, service, and dedication continue to inspire our community. The Gospel message of being “salt of the earth” and “light for the world” encouraged us to recognise the many ways our students and staff shine through acts of compassion, leadership and service. During the Mass, we also prayed for those leaving our Mercy community — students and staff alike — entrusting them to God’s care as they begin new chapters.
Following Mass, the celebration continued with our 2025 Awards Ceremony, recognising the outstanding achievements, effort, and contributions of students across all year levels. Congratulations to the many award winners! We also presented our annual St Vinnies donations, a symbol of our commitment to live out Mercy in action.
We thank Fr George, our student leaders, staff, musicians and all involved for creating a meaningful and faith-filled end to our school year.
Come, Lord Jesus. May we wait in hope, act in love, and walk in Mercy.
Melanie Bourchier – Director of Catholic Identity & Culture