Diocesan News
On 11 November, Parishes and DOBCEL Catholic Schools around the diocese proudly joined Australians across the nation in commemorating the 107th Anniversary of Remembrance Day.
At 11:00am, students, teachers, and staff paused for a minute of silence to honour the men and women who served and gave their lives in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions. The red poppy, a symbol of resilience and sacrifice, reminds us of their courage and unwavering commitment to peace. Masses were celebrated in honour of these men and women.
Gratitude is extended to St Alipius Parish School in Ballarat East, Sacred Heart Primary School in Casterton, St Joseph’s Primary School in Coleraine, Sacred Heart Primary School in Mildura, St Patrick’s School in Nhill and St Patrick’s Primary School in St Arnaud for sharing their heartfelt commemorations.
Through these acts of remembrance, we stand united in paying tribute to those who shaped our history and safeguarded our future.
Together, we honour their legacy. Lest we forget.
Every year since 1919, many nations have paused on Remembrance Day in memory of their fallen service people. Remembrance Day is an invitation for us to remember those who have died or served in war. This day is a time to pray for peace and to recommit to creating a world inspired by God’s love.
The staff of Catholic Education Ballarat, gathered to commemorate Remembrance Day to reflect, remember and pray for peace. The liturgy was held in the Ballarat office while staff located across the Diocese, had the opportunity to join virtually.
Mr Tom Sexton, Executive Director of DOBCEL, also laid a wreath on behalf of all Catholic Education Ballarat staff in remembrance of those who served and lost their lives in war.
As the wreath was laid the following reflection was recited.
We place this wreath in memory of all those who have served or died in war.
We remember all those who served at Gallipoli and in the trenches of the western front.
We remember those who during World War Two defended freedom on land, water and in the skies in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.
We remember those brave men and women who served in northern Australia and the jungles of South-East Asia, and across the islands of the Pacific when war came to our shores. Through their sacrifices our lasting freedom was secured.
We remember those who served in Malaya, Korea and Vietnam.
In Timor Leste and the desert sands of Kuwait.
In Afghanistan and numerous peace keeping activities Australia has supported.
We remember all prisoners of war who often endured cruelty and suffering.
We remember all who have died and served in the name of freedom.
Lest we Forget
DOBCEL Communications