Ash Wednesday
In commencing the beginning of the Lenten season, students and staff participated in a liturgical service for Ash Wednesday. Being marked with a cross of ashes on the forehead, reminds us of the dust from which God made, for as we receive ashes the words recited are, “From dust you came and from dust you will return.”
These ashes also symbolise grief and we accept the ashes as a visible symbol of penance. Even non-Christians are welcomed to receive the ashes. The ashes are made from blessed palm branches, taken from the previous year's palm Sunday Mass.
Gathering in Year Level groups around the college enabled a more personal and intimate connection to the ceremony which also provided a moment of quiet, private prayer. Students and Staff on Year 8A camp were also able to participate in their own liturgical service at the Torquay campus.
Michael Chesser
Director of Catholic Mission & Mercy Ethos