Saint Augustine and his mother, Saint Monica - by Ary Scheffer - VOLUME 30 NUMBER 4 - St Monica's ...
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ST MONICA’S COLLEGE, EPPING Saint Augustine and his mother, Saint Monica by Ary Scheffer VOLUME 30 NUMBER 4 August 2020
ST MONICA’S COLLEGE, EPPING Contents 3 Principal’s Report 4 Dalton Road Campus Director’s Report MISSION St Monica’s College is a regional Catholic 4 Davisson Street Campus Director’s Report coeducational faith community. The school values the sacredness and wellbeing of all students, staff and parents and is committed to serving the young people 5 Deputy Principal’s Report (Operations) of the northern suburbs of Melbourne. We promote the truths and values of Jesus Christ and 5 Deputy Principal’s Report (Identity, Mission & Community) fidelity to the message of the Gospels. Through prayer and perseverance, we nurture genuine and harmonious relationships based on restorative principles. 6 Assistant Principal Development, Training & Compliance Our teaching and learning approach is contemporary, global in perspective and aims to inspire life-long learning. We seek to stimulate and develop academic 7 Liturgy learning and students’ personal world view through critical thought, whilst always being respectful of 7 Youth Ministry students’ abilities and learning styles. We encourage and assist each Monican to reach full potential. Student-centred educational programs and extra- 8 Social Justice curricular offerings foster respect of self, others and the environment. The College provides extensive well maintained facilities, resources and technologies 8-9 Careers which reflect an ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation. 10 2020 House Chess Competition St Monica’s College celebrates its cultural diversity and draws strong identity from its past. We endeavour to empower Monicans to flourish and contribute 10 Performing Arts positively to Australia and the world, now and in the future. 11-14 Monican Women OUR STRATEGIC INTENT St Monica’s College is a School of Educational 15 Values Education Enterprise. The College is committed to adopting international perspectives focussing on global citizenship and social justice for all. There is an 15 Mask Competition ongoing commitment to the development of programs and facilities including a Trade Skills Centre. The College aims to be a leader in innovation, the 16-17 St Monica’s Day from the Past use of Information and Communication Technology, with state of the art resources and encouraging digital leadership. The College will continue to 18 The Governor in Schools Program expand the repertoire of effective teaching practices and use of data, in order to strengthen curriculum 19 Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning pathways and achievement. Contemporary learning opportunities will be provided for all community members, including students, staff and parents. 19 COVID-19 and Masks 20 Dedication to Studies – Revised and renewed! 21 Sport EDITORIAL TEAM Principal Mr Brian Hanley 22-23 Alumni Ms Pamela Griffin COVER 24 Enrolments for Year 7, 2022 ‘Saint Augustine and his mother, Saint Monica.’ School of Educational Enterprise
Principal’s Report Gifts on the Table Mr Brian Hanley Let us celebrate the good things in life – our From our dear saint comes our revered motto be a Monican, the privilege, the honor and the life itself, our family and our friends, our faith, of ‘Pray and Persevere’. Who prayed more, delight. We shall never let this virus and this our school and work, our favorite pastimes with such fervour and with such perseverance, hardship destroy the Monican spirit. and hobbies like music, sports, art, crafts and than this woman of the fourth century? Monica This edition of The Monican includes a very watching favorite movies. pursued her son, Augustine, across seas special and once-in-a-lifetime feature. Monican and continents, she pleaded on his behalf to Let us also mourn in sincerity with those Women honors a collection of female Monicans Bishop Ambrose in Milan, she rejoiced when in the midst of their grief. We mourn for all who have distinguished themselves in service Augustine converted to the Christian faith and Monicans who have been affected directly to this College since 1964. Identify as many reconciled with God. or through family or friends as a result of the as you recognise. The honor roll features our Coronavirus. We pray for the repose of the soul We are enthralled and captivated by the portrait Saints, Principals, Good Samaritan Sisters of of grandparents who have died, for neighbours of Monica and Augustine by Ary Scheffer note, Board and Governance Monicans, long- or fellow workers we know, for those we do (1795 – 1858) entitled St Augustine and His serving and special teachers and non-teachers, not know but who have been taken by the virus. Mother St Monica. This work catches the alumni, and special current Monicans. It truly is We pray for those who live but have been tested devoted concentration in the beautiful faces of a treasure trove of loved and revered Monicans, positive, for those who have agonised whilst mother and son, its yellow hue suggests a new past and present. Each is a gift to St Monica’s awaiting results, for those who live in a constant dawn emerging, the holding of hands entwined College, Epping. state of anxiety. captures the love of a parent and child looking in I invite all people as you read to know that this awe at the revelation of the Kingdom of God. August is the month of Saint Monica so let us College recognises the cruelty of the virus, smile and hand over our torment and grief for Our College experiences will be so different in we shall persevere as best and as often as we a short time into her heavenly arms. She is 2020. No actual commissioning of new College must. We love our patron, Saint Monica, the our loving patron, our spiritual and human Captains: no party pies, sausage rolls or fairy remarkable woman of prayer and perseverance. role model, our College saint and our school’s floss for lunch: no sweet treat at the end of the We honor the memory, contributions, service and inspiration. Her feast day is 27 August annually. day. The Oration is gone in 2020 along with the commitment of very special Monican women. Sports Breakfast. No amusements lifting us up, When Saint Monica was selected in the 1960’s Our loyalty and affection for all things Monican spinning us around, rocking and rolling us in a to have this school named in her honor, some are the gifts we lay on the table of life in 2020. frenzy of speed. people were disappointed or at least a little Brian E. Hanley surprised, even miffed. Why Monica when Yet, we will deliver our College Pledges to each College Principal it could have been Scholastica or some other other one day in 2020, and we shall see our name more associated with the Benedictine 2021 College Captains commissioned into their Sisters of the Good Samaritan? But Monica it future roles. Somehow and on some occasion, was, and Monica it will remain. we shall find time to celebrate what it means to 3
Director’s Report Director’s Report Dalton Road Campus Davisson Street Campus Ms Amorina Chirico Miss Paula Di Maria The lead up to St Monica’s Week on the Dalton Road Campus August is the month of Monica and in this extraordinary year that is 2020, is an absolute time of joy and excitement for students it has never been more important than it is right now, to draw inspiration from and staff. The countdown commences in the early days of a woman who is as relevant and influential today, as she was as a woman of the August and we can hear a slow tick, tick, tick approaching fourth-century. the “big day”. Year 8 and Year 9 students know exactly what Our patroness St Monica, is an example of someone who worked assiduously to expect, and Year 7 students having only heard what the behind the scenes, demonstrating great effort and determination with faith as day brings, are literally jumping out of their skin to enjoy the her source of strength, to allow others to reach their full potential. We are all celebrations and excitement. familiar with her story which centres on her dogged resolve to lead her unruly Alas, COVID-19 has completely derailed the day of days at son Augustine, towards what was to be his conversion to Christianity. It is widely SMC! Students have asked if the day can be postponed, they understood that Monica’s ceaseless prayer and perseverance, saw no bounds or have enquired regarding an alternative celebration, they are limitations, such was the tremendous love she felt for God, and her own will to asking to complete virtual Homeroom decorations, they have her son experience that great love too. If the recounts of Monica’s life stand wonder what a year at SMC looks like without a St Monica’s true, her invisible ministries to the abused women of her time and her prayers for Day celebration and to be honest, so do I? her son and husband, remain true examples of the selflessness of a woman who sacrificed everything for those she championed. The ripple effects of her legacy My own Year 7 Religious Education classes have read can be felt to this present day, as we draw inspiration from a woman whose actions about Saint Monica and studied one of the many beautiful and unwavering devotion remind us that we move in much greater circles than prayers dedicated to her. They have written their own ourselves, in the work we do with and for others in service. prayer to a friend or family member and have completely immersed themselves into our motto, Pray and Persevere. The challenges that our global community continues to face in 2020, are not They understand what a courageous, fearless, tolerant, unique. History has taught us that prior pandemics have had devastating effects patient and loving mother she was. They are proud that our in various corners of the world, and many of these have been referenced in great school is named after her and for her. They know a bit comparisons made with the current crisis. The great lessons of the past inform us more about her son, Augustine and understand that her love that individuals and groups alike, have, and can work tirelessly and completely and devotion to him, reflects the truly dedicated mother focused and determined towards a desired outcome. At present, the world draws she was. My students know that she travelled half way comfort in the hope that a vaccine will be discovered to assist in eradicating a silent across the world in difficult and harsh times to find him and adversary that has infiltrated the previously most secure of settings. Our homes, bring him home in the hope he would convert to Christianity. schools, churches, aged care residencies and hospitals have been subjected to the effects of this unwelcomed intruder that has in many ways altered these places My students are aware of the fact that Monica had a tough from sanctuaries to hotspots. Many sacrifices and concessions continue to be made life with an uncaring husband and a hostile mother in law. to ensure the protection and wellbeing of both the most endeared and vulnerable They were fascinated by her North African heritage. members of our families and communities. Such sacrifices have been challenging They were extremely pleased to learn that not only was her and continue to bring out a mixture of the best examples and in some instances, son, Augustine, converted to Christianity, but that he also the worst of humankind. We are all stakeholders in this present situation, and it is became a priest, bishop, writer and a saint. My class was important that we are respectfully heated in our determination to support our loved fascinated and amazed that this great woman, our College ones, our students, our neighbours, colleagues, our elderly and our health care Patron, died peacefully, at the age of fifty-four at Ostia, as a providers. St Monica was unwavering in her pursuit where her son was concerned, great role model for mothers world-wide. so too must we be relentless in our effort to seek support and assistance for those My students enjoyed learning about all this wonderful woman that need our help and cooperation to restore the safety and comfort of home, of and demonstrated great pride in the fact that they are in her school, of church, of residential aged care and of our health care system. care as MONICANS. In this month we celebrate the strength, legacy and faithful commitment a woman What I have not shared with you is that all of this information of the fourth century, who used prayer and perseverance as her vehicle to achieve a about Saint Monica was shared remotely and yet, my students goal that was selfless and that would ultimately assist to nurture the heart and mind remain in awe of her. of one of the greatest Doctors of the Catholic Church. Her relevance in today’s world is abundant. Each one of us could possibly be thinking that we cannot Saint Monica, Pray For Us make a difference in changing the trajectory of this present world crisis that is impacting the way we live, teach, learn and play. St Monica’s example however, Amorina Chirico tells us otherwise. It reminds us that one individual can make a significant impact Deputy Principal, Director of Dalton Road Campus on another person’s life because they love and believe in them fully. Her altruistic 4 life journey continues to teach us that we can achieve our greatest of objectives, if we are prepared to make sacrifices for those we love and those that we need to advocate for. This grand figure of courage, faith and determination, in the humblest of ways, is worthy of our respect and awe because she was not prepared to give up despite the odds. She had hope and love until her dying days and as we remember and honour her, particularly during the month of August, let us pay homage to a woman who continues to inspire us, so many centuries later. Saint Monica, Pray For Us Paula Di Maria Deputy Principal, Director of Davisson Street Campus
Deputy Principal’s Report Deputy Principal’s Report Operations Identity, Mission & Community Gifts on the Table Mr Cameron Whitford Miss Bernadette Harris In my article in June I highlighted that, it was indeed The College’s Leopoldine Mimovich collection was a team effort in order to respond to the changes in our started in the 1970’s with the purchase of a few bronze world. A team effort from all the different groups we statues. In the 1990’s Mr Hanley gathered all of our have assembled at the College working many hours artworks together and started to expand and feature our in management, facility services, finance services, holdings. Understanding the important role religious art teachers and many other areas. What I did not focus on plays in our faith tradition, he was inspired to develop was the teamwork between teachers and students and an extensive Mimovich collection. We currently have also students and families. an impressive display in both our Augustine House Administration Building and newly constructed three There are many references in the Bible to teamwork and storey Teaching and Learning Building. collaboration and many stories highlighting this work. However, what sticks out for me is: Leopoldine Mimovich was a globally recognised Austrian artist and sculptor who immigrated to Australia “Two are better than one; because they after the end of World War II. Specialising in wooden have a good reward for their labour.” and bronze sculptures, as well as paintings and carvings, her creations are widely acclaimed and many feature Crux Benedictus – Ecclesiastes 4.9 her loving connection to God and Our Lady. In 1985 she received the Order of Australia Medal in recognition of This quote is never truer than today. For it is the union her services to sculpture and religious art. between the school, the students, their families and We are fortunate to have paintings, icons, statues in God that will see the benefits post this COVID crisis. various mediums and a large crucifix (Crux Benedictus) When we, as individuals all work together, we can double from the former Good Samaritan Convent Chapel. our strength, lean on each other and create a certain majestic harmony within our day to day routines. A much loved feature are a carved wooden set of Stations of the Cross that adorn Our Lady’s Chapel. As teachers continue to work hard creating content, The intricately carved set was donated by the Gleeson dialling in via Google Meet, MS Teams or Zoom, grading family. Sister Janice Gleeson served on our staff work through the screen, it is the students who will also from 1973 until 1978. She remained in touch with the be setting up their work station, remembering to charge College and later accepted an invitation to be a member laptops and meeting the reduced deadlines that have Stations of the Cross of our College Ethos Focus Group. been set. This teamwork together will reap rewards in the long term for the enormous effort they are giving. Upon entry to our campuses, visitors are fortunate to be able to view our impressive Mimovich collection, the During the day, it is the Property team going about their centre piece of which is ‘Heart to Heart.’ A seven-foot daily maintenance routines, the Finance Department (2.134 metres) wooden sculpture, it features a mother continuing to pay accounts and assist with fees, and a child, the child resting on the heart of the mother Administration Office answering phone calls and and the mother holding her child close to her heart. the IT Department meeting the requests of both staff The sculpture has an interesting history and suffered and students. All these teams work as individuals within fire damage prior to its acquisition by the College in the bigger team that is the Monican family. late 2017. It is a golden honey coloured timber, a most Who knows which way we will go with the COVID imposing yet gentle experience for the visitor to the crisis, only time will tell and many prayers made for College Reception. a return to normality. Currently, though, I see all the Equally cherished is the bronze statue entitled ‘Mater Monican community working as a team to overcome these Fidelis.’ Purchased to commemorate the Fortieth huge life obstacles. Strength in numbers to do our part Anniversary of the College in 2004, this beautiful bronze to maintain a normal schooling (as much as possible) so sculpture features Our Lady and the infant Jesus and is that no child is left behind. aptly named ‘Mother of Faith’ for it depicts a mother’s As Stage 4 restrictions have commenced our strength will devotion to her beloved infant. Heart to Heart be further tested. We must each do our part for Victoria The St Monica’s College community was saddened to and Australia and our families at home. Our individual mentality must be always thinking of how we fit into the hear of the passing of Leopoldine Mimovich on Christmas Day 2019 and as a mark of respect we were represented 5 team and what role we must play, and if we do, our rewards at her funeral service. Her deep and abiding faith, artistic will be plentiful in the future. talent and wondrous use of religious art and motifs to Cameron Whitford inspire religious devotion, will remain an inspiration to Deputy Principal (Operations) all Monicans now and into the future. Bernadette Harris Deputy Principal (Identity, Mission & Community) Mater Fidelis
Assistant Principal Development, Training & Compliance Kirsten Hodgson Our teaching and learning approach is contemporary, global in perspective and aims to inspire life-long learning. – Mission Statement, St Monica’s College One of the many ways that we inspire life-long PROFESSIONAL LEARNING GRADUATE TEACHER learning at St Monica’s College is by modelling COMMUNITIES PROGRAM to our students a culture of continuous Each year at St Monica’s College, teachers The College sees the value in employing professional learning. In 2020, it has been collaborate in small groups to develop a graduate teachers each year, all of whom have most pleasing to acknowledge that a changed common objective which must look toward experienced recent exposure to contemporary educational landscape has only increased the improving student outcomes. In 2020, we shifted educational theory and practices. As mandated level of professional learning that teachers and the emphasis of these groups from meetings to by the Victorian Institute of Teaching, graduate support staff are engaging in. We offer many practical application which saw teachers focused teacher must submit a portfolio of evidence that opportunities for our staff to enhance their more on changing practices in the classroom. demonstrates a solid foundation of understanding professional practices and in this edition of The Without the need for continual face to face of the standards of teaching. St Monica’s College Monican, I take the opportunity to share some meetings, these groups have still been able to supports its graduate teachers with professional of these with our community. operate and be productive in a virtual world. learning opportunities, and each is allocated Many groups took the opportunity of shifting an experienced mentor to guide them through PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT their focus to enhancing the remote learning their first year of teaching. Mentors are also WORKSHOPS, SEMINARS experience for students in Terms 2 and 3. provided with training in areas such as providing AND COURSES actionable feedback and effectively observing St Monica’s College is committed to the Linda Kopec, Educational Leader in the United classroom lessons. At the end of the process, provision of resources to support staff to States, stresses that “Education is a field that is graduate teachers provide their evidence with a increase their skills and knowledge of dedicated to continuous learning. Professional devised inquiry question in mind. We have many educational practices. Each year, staff attend learning communities are the ‘training ground’ engaging portfolios in the process in 2020, with an array of professional learning events in for this to occur.” At St Monica’s College, some inquiries including: How can technology a number of contexts and 2020 has been no a significant focus on ongoing professional be used to differentiate in the classroom? and different. Conference providers have moved to development aimed at improving teaching How can a focus on self-reflection improve online webinars as a way to continue to meet practices and in turn student outcomes is always student outcomes? We wish all of our graduate the professional learning needs of educators and at the forefront and has once again thrived teachers the best as they present their portfolios our staff have embraced this opportunity and in a year that has seen educational goal posts and move toward full teaching registration. regardless of their work location, have attended constantly shifted. There are some wonderfully these sessions in large numbers. With the rather valuable PLCs occurring this year, including ANNUAL REVIEW PROCESS sudden and unexpected move to remote teaching groups with a focus on: Using new technologies for a STEAM classroom, Enhancing Science All staff at the College are regularly encouraged and learning this year, many staff have taken the in today’s world, Exploring interdisciplinary and supported to embrace professional learning opportunity to upskill and develop their ability questions and Implementing flipped learning. opportunities. Each year, we conclude with a to teach in an online world. We also have many thorough review process for all teachers and staff that are engaging in online qualifications, COACHING AND MENTORING educational support staff that enables reflection such as Certificates in Educational Support and on practices and the professional learning that Certificates in Training and Assessment (to St Monica’s College Mentoring and Coaching has occurred throughout the year. The process become nationally recognised VET trainers). program is aimed at further developing our also provides an opportunity to set goals for the SMC’s commitment to the faith development culture of ongoing professional learning and year ahead. We are most proud of the manner of its community can be seen in its support of reflective practice. Our Teaching and Learning in which our staff model a commitment to life- teachers to engage in studies that enable them Charter states that the teachers at SMC nurture long learning at St Monica’s College. to achieve and maintain Accreditation to Teach lifelong learning. Staff taking part in the in a Catholic School. We provide many in-house program will experience collegial discussions, Kirsten Hodgson opportunities for this professional reflection classroom observation, peer feedback and self- Assistant Principal and development. The College is generous in its reflection. The College has been committed to (Development, Training & Compliance) sponsorship of staff to pursue academic goals in the growth of coaching and mentoring for many 6 their specialised areas. years and in 2020 it increased the role of the senior staff mentor, responsible for the provision of mentoring and mentor training across the College. The philosophy behind the program is to continually train colleagues to be effective mentors so a culture of peer coaching develops throughout the College. The focus is not merely on inexperienced teachers but rather the notion that even the most experienced senior staff members have something to learn from peer observations.
Liturgy Youth Ministry Gifts on the Table Frank Cumbo Theresa McLaurin Throughout His life, Jesus affirmed that His highest priority ‘The System of the Parish Cells of Evangelization’ (SPCE) sprung to life in 1987, would always be spending time strengthening and celebrating when Rev Don Piergiorgio Perini established a group of parishioners to revitalise His relationship with His Heavenly Father through prayer his parish in Milan. SPCE, or ‘Cells’ as it is often called, is a means of evangelising and leading others to do the same. This is why Jesus devoted through weekly gatherings of small groups, traditionally in homes or parishes. countless hours to personal and shared prayer, even as many Cells meet regularly to cultivate the five dynamics of growth in the Christian life: people sought Him out for healing and wisdom. Jesus never fellowship, praise/worship, formation, witness, and service. allowed Himself to become ‘too busy’ with the many good I first encountered Cells as a teenager at my local parish, St Francis of Assisi, works that were in His power to perform. Instead, Jesus Mill Park. As a young person, I eagerly awaited the ‘youth’ cell meeting every made a point of building a community around Him that was Thursday evening as an opportunity to catch-up with friends and grow in my faith. dedicated to the ‘work’ of prayer; the original meaning of the We began each gathering by recollecting ‘God-like moments’ or opportunities word liturgy. for gratitude throughout our week, sharing prayers of thanks and praise to God Our Monican community imitates Christ in our time by for these gifts. The focus of our discussions was Sunday’s Gospel reading. taking up every opportunity to pray, no matter where we are. We pondered the perfect example of Christ and the imperfect example of His Throughout the last few weeks, Monican staff and students followers, which in turn influenced how we would go about our week. We always have prayed from home and at school. We have prayed concluded the formal part of the session with intercessory prayers for the world, privately and in small groups, in person and gathered our community and our loved ones. Then there was time for socialising and pizza. virtually online. Our prayers have been varied in style and Usually we would remain behind well after the official meeting ended. length but they have always been centred on the gifts we have It has been a blessing to see our recently launched Monican Cell group bear to offer to those in need of healing, support or encouragement. similar fruit. The gatherings, which are held mid-week, give students a chance It was truly wonderful, then, for us to have discovered a gift to catch their breath, draw inspiration from the Gospel and each other, and from past Monicans in recent days; prayers that Monican go forward ready to spread the Good News by their lives. In each meeting, students had written almost fifty years ago were identified relationships are nurtured and Monicans accompany one another in developing in our College archives. Gayle, a Form 5 student in 1972, as servant leaders and Disciples of Christ. Cells draws on the ‘oikos’ method expressed the following sentiments in her prayer: “Help our of evangelisation. Your oikos is that group of people with whom you are in world in its efforts to make peace, for you have overcome even regular contact. Our relationships are God’s natural channels of accomplishing death itself in the Resurrection of Christ. Give peace to those evangelisation. Therefore, Cell attendees are encouraged to reach out to others in who live in fear, courage to those who have lost hope and faith their oikos – family members, neighbours, peers, co-workers, and teammates. to those who live in doubt.” These gifts continue to be needed Every ‘Cell’ group is a small yet important part of the Church’s evangelising in our time and it the rediscovery of this prayer is a timely mission and work. In a parish context, the Cell of evangelisation is in a vital reminder that our College has always been a community of relationship with the parish community, much like a biological cell relies on its faith concerned for the needs and wellbeing of all. connection to the body for life. At St Monica’s College, ‘Cell’ attendees similarly Rather than praying less when we are busy or overwhelmed realise connections between the Gospel and their experience of College and by the circumstances of our lives, we pray more. We ensure Parish life, including the many ways they have responded to the call of Christ: that we remain centred on the core of who we are: members participating in the Mass and Sacraments, prayer, youth ministry, social justice of a Catholic Community dedicated to helping young people and community involvement. identify, cultivate and celebrate their God-given gifts. Monicans interested in participating in a ‘Cell’ meeting are welcome to speak to Yes, this is for the good of those young people, since it Mrs McLaurin for more information. helps Monicans to thrive and find their place in the world. Yet, by encouraging students to place their gifts on the table, Theresa McLaurin our College also makes great contribution to the common Coordinator of Youth Ministry good of all. Inspired by St Monica, our patron, we nurture these gifts with regular prayer, affirming that, ultimately, “The lunchtime ‘Cell’ meetings have “Cell meeting are fantastic to get it is the voice of God that quietly urges us to use our gifts in always been a nice break from the our minds away from the stresses of the service of others. stresses of school. Without fail, I have our studies and life and provide Frank Cumbo always left the meetings enlightened us with the chance to reflect on the Liturgy, Faith & Mission Coordinator and educated. Our weekly discussions Gospel by discussing aspects of it and readings enable us to open up with like-minded students.” dialogue about relevant issues as Lynton Martin Be strong and courageous. Do not be well as share our own perspectives. 7 frightened, and do not be dismayed, This initiative has played a significant role in refining my faith and more for the Lord your God is with you importantly, instilled in me the ability wherever you go. to acknowledge different opinions and empathise with the experiences of – Joshua 1:9 others. I strongly encourage my fellow Monicans to come along to one of the 'Cell' meetings, and see how we create change spiritually and mentally, through the power of the Word.” Leanne Sebastian
Social Justice Careers Damian Fleishmann RERUM NOVARUM AWARD PROJECT UNIVERSITY VIRTUAL OPEN DAYS Rerum Novarum was an encyclical letter It is with great enthusiasm that the application It is the time of the year when senior written by Pope Leo XIII in 1891 to address was accepted and the group now progresses students are attending University important social issues of that time. It was onto the next stage of the Award process. Open Days. This year all of the Open the seminal document in the development Why did they chose this issue? Days will be conducted virtually, and of the Church’s social teaching in the (extract from application) most will be held in August. modern era. “O ur parents decided to enrol us as The Office for Justice and Peace and Monicans, which means we all have Catholic Education Melbour ne have Students are encouraged to register for as many to some degree, privilege, and with introduced a Rerum Novarum Award in Open Day events as possible and register soon! that privilege comes a responsibility. 2020. The award is for groups of students A responsibility to not turn a blind eye Anyone who is considering studying at a tertiary in Years 10-12 in Catholic schools across for those suffering in not only our own level in the next few years should attend. Victoria. It required the students to develop community but the world, and recognise Social Justice projects on an issue, using the advantage we have been given, the See, Judge, Act method to apply the especially regarding being born or to Apart from the opportunity to obtain course principles of Catholic Social Teaching. live in the country we are in. information, there are many other reasons for Senior Be More students (Angelique participating: When I watched a documentary by Stan Incorvaja, Zoe Pappas, Briana Papathanasiou Grant on the ABC, this line really stood • Y ou are going to feel more comfortable and Savannah Tamilselvan) decided to out to me, ‘We cannot close the gap and arriving at a university or TAFE institute enter and submit their application based on our people too often remain out of sight on the first day of classes if you have done racial prejudice, equality and indigenous and out of mind to most Australians.’ your research and found out more about the perspectives within Australia. So, to be a Monican is not only to be institution Application: aware of our privilege, but to use it for • W hat is really involved in the course or “In this year of health pandemics, protests the better of others and help give a voice courses you are interested in about race and inequality and treatment to those who struggle to get it heard!” of the marginalised, we are reminded of • W ill you be happier studying in a large our call to be like the Good Samaritan – Angelique Incorvaja. metropolitan institution or a smaller, perhaps and to genuinely encounter those most in rural institution? need. As Australians, and as Monicans, Be More students will now move onto larger projects of collaboration, including a • W hat does the place ‘feel’ like? Watch or we need to look inward and reflect on the research paper, video presentation, project participate in Virtual Tours, and try gaining unjust treatment of Indigenous people impact report, and a funding proposal in an insight into whether or not it is a bustling and observe the current social climate order to win the $10,000. We congratulate environment with lots of activity, or a quieter, from their perspective. We, the students them on their efforts. more relaxed campus set in landscaped of St Monica’s College Epping, urge grounds all to stand in solidarity and celebrate Damian Fleishmann Indigenous people and culture and Coordinator of Social Justice • H ow are you going to get there? Is it close to advocate for just treatment and an end to public transport or should you start saving marginalisation”. now for a car? To make your Virtual Open Day activity fun and informative, here are some pointers: • W rite down a list of questions you would like to ask about particular courses – if they are not addressed during the virtual event, you can always follow up with the institutions later 8 • I f the event allows Q & A, make sure you ask lots of questions • Enjoy the activity! Paul White Manager of Careers Department
INSTITUTION DATE TIME CONTACT DETAILS Australian Catholic University Sat 29 August 9am - 3pm 1300 275 228 Melbourne Campus Sat 5 September 9am - 3pm Email: opendayvic@acu.edu.au Gifts on the Table Virtual Tour: www.acu.edu.au/locations/melbourne/melbourne-virtual-tour Sat 12 September 9am - 3pm Register for any of the three Open Days at Ballarat Campus https://openday.acu.edu.au/ AskACU – students can Virtual Tour: www.acu.edu.au/locations/ballarat/ballarat-virtual-tour call, submit an online question, or start a chat Australian National University Sat 22 - 28 August Various times https://www.anu.edu.au/events/anu-open-day Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrByokzunww Bond University Sat 25 July 1pm - 5pm 1800 074 074 Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7Cvh1SFhkY https://bond.edu.au/open-day Box Hill Institute 1300 059 104 www.boxhill.edu.au/events/ Collarts (Australian College of the Arts) Sat 29 August www.collarts.edu.au/open-day CQUniversity Sat 1 August Sat 10am - 1pm 13 27 86 15 August www.cqu.edu.au/courses/future-students/ future-study-options/open-days Charles Sturt University 6 - 17 Sept (select days) Various times https://study.csu.edu.au/life/events/open-day Deakin University & Deakin College Sun 16 August 9am - 4pm 1800 334 733 All Campuses www.deakin.edu.au/openday Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0ImJgEya4U&feature=youtu.be (03) 9244 5197 Federation University Sun 16 August 1800 333 864 Virtual Tour: https://federation.edu.au/future-students/ https://federation.edu.au/openday study-at-federation/virtual-tours?utm_source=redirect&utm_ medium=web&utm_campaign=virtualtour Griffiths University Open until 1 October Various times 1800 677 728 Nathan Campus www.griffith.edu.au/open-day Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-DnEHq8_wk Gold Coast Campus Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8lXH_W8VOU Holmesglen Institute 6 August Various times 1300 639 888 All Campuses Online bookings are essential Virtual Campus and Study Tours: https://holmesglen.edu.au/Students/ www.holmesglen.edu.au/opendays Secondary-School-Students/Resources-for-Career-Practitioners/Campus-tours/ JMC Academy Sat 15 August (03) 9624 2917 Melbourne Campus www.jmcacademy.edu.au/events/open-days Virtual Tour: https://vimeo.com/408262168 Kangan Institute Wed 26 August 13 82 33 https://study.kangan.edu.au/open-day-2020/ La Trobe University & La Trobe College Sun 2 August 10am - 4pm 1300 135 045 Melbourne Campus Sun 23 August 10am - 3pm Register to participate at www.latrobe.edu.au/openday Virtual Tour: www.latrobe.edu.au/melbourne/virtual-tour Sun 23 August 10am - 3pm (03) 9479 2417 Shepparton / Mildura / Albury-Wodonga Bendigo Campus La Trobe College: https://vimeo.com/281917262 Virtual Tour: www.latrobe.edu.au/bendigo/about Melbourne Polytechnic (03) 9269 1200 www.melbournepolytechnic.edu.au/ about-us/news-and-events/events/? Monash University & Monash College Sat 29 August 10am - 2pm 1800 666 274 Sun 30 August 10am - 2pm www.monash.edu/news/events/open-day-2020 Mon 31 August 4pm - 7pm (03) 9903 4788 Monash College: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=KvC-DDcxSlE&feature=youtu.be Photographic Studies College Sun 2 August (03) 9682 3191 or 1300 818 777 www.psc.edu.au/study-with-us/psc-virtual-open-day.html RMIT Sat 8 and 10am - 3pm 9925 2260 Bundoora, City & Brunswick Campuses Sun 9 August www.rmit.edu.au/openday SAE Qantm Sun 30 August 11am - 2pm 1800 723 338 South Melbourne Campus https://sae.edu.au/news-and-events/events/ melbourne-campus-open-day-16-august- 2020/?date=2020-08-16&id=558 Swinburne University From Wed 12 August Various times 1300 SWINBURNE Hawthorn Campus www.swinburne.edu.au/openday/ Virtual Tour: www.swinburne.edu.au/virtual-tour/360/photos/ Torrens University On demand On demand 1300 575 803 www.torrens.edu.au/about/virtual-open-day University of Melbourne Sat 5 and 1800 801 662 Parkville & Southbank Sun 6 Sept https://study.unimelb.edu.au/openday Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_cgsdW2vVw University New South Wales (UNSW) Sat 22 August 9am - 4pm 1300 864 679 Canberra Campus (ADFA) Sat 5 September 9am - 4pm www.events.unsw.edu.au/event/adfa-open-day Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWI74RY9IlA www.events.unsw.edu.au/event/unsw-open-day-0 Sydney Campus Virtual Tour: http://360tour.unsw.edu.au/ University of Sydney 1800 793 864 Virtual Tour: https://tour.sydney.edu.au/ http://openday.sydney.edu.au/ University of Tasmania 28 - 30 August 10am - 5pm www.utas.edu.au/open-day 9 Virtual Presentation: www.youtube.com/watch?v =SbOKANdSuTg&feature=youtu.be Victoria University Sat 29 August 12pm - 6pm 1300 842 864 Footscray Park Campus www.vu.edu.au/open-day-2020 Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=al61hNvyKd8&list=PL3y_ wByS2sRPafspC45HiKnnLqzejFYqs City Flinders Campus Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdGYdwxnBng&list=PL3y_wByS2 sRPafspC45HiKnnLqzejFYqs&index=2 City Queen Campus Virtual Tour: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSRlhPVYxCs&list=PL3y_wB yS2sRPafspC45HiKnnLqzejFYqs&index=4 William Angliss Institute of TAFE Sat 1 and 1300 264 5477 Sun 2 August www.angliss.edu.au/study-with-us/meet-us/OpenDay/ This information was correct at the time of publication. Students are encouraged to register soon for these events so they can receive important updates. Addresses of tertiary institutions are available via VTAC on www.vtac.edu.au or by ringing the institution directly or visiting their website. Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 are encouraged to participate in a few Virtual Open Days.
2020 House Chess Competition Performing Arts The 2020 SMC DRC House Chess Competition commenced on Wednesday 17 June in the Reading Room of the Pamela The show must go on and a lot is going on in Coyne Library and DSC House Chess Competition the Performing Arts at St Monica’s College commenced on Thursday 18 June in Room Q77. All students 2020 has definitely been a unique year in our history. The first semester proved played competitively with great enthusiasm and enjoyed challenging, especially for our budding Monican Performing Artists. However, all the competitions. House lunchtime chess competitions are a staff and students have persevered – creating, sharing and performing consistently great extension to the SMC Chess Club run by Mr Strantzen. during the lockdown period. With the re-introduction of Remote Learning for Both competitions will continue when school resumes. Years 7-10 in July, many Arts events have been postponed. The annual College The following students participated in the first round of Production of the Wizard of Oz is currently on hiatus and is scheduled for a bigger the competition: and better 2021 performance season. The Production Team have worked very hard to ensure students will have the opportunity to perform this musical classic next YEAR 7 year at the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre. Manan Ahuja, Aidian Ebenezer, Angella Dcunha, Cruze De Giorgio, Ekin Dang, Jackson Sloan, The Principal’s Cup for Song auditions are well underway and this year, the Vu Tran, Eric Tun, Max Mircevski, Dessie Fitzgerald, prestigious Principal’s Award will be held virtually for the first time in the Isaac Botuyan, Tan Nguyen, Dean Wu, Maksim Saletic College’s history! Students are currently in the process of submitting audition performance recordings and finalist videos will be released from the 31 August. YEAR 8 Adjudicator, Belinda Parsons, a professional vocalist and experienced educator, is Pranav Jaswal, Vansh Kumar, Lachlan Brundell, Justin set to announce the winner on the evening of the 7 September online. We wish all Taduran, Trajco Nikolov, Matthew James – (BYE) our Monican vocalists the best of luck! Benjamin Hodges YEAR 9 Faculty Leader of Performing Arts Stanley Lee Tui, Yuvraj Sharma, Jordan Papadopoulos, Jared Fu, Jeremiah Susi YEAR 10 Edwin Joby, Jim Xue, Aryan Bhalla, Anuraj Verma, Hitesh Suneja, Matthew Kristanto, Julian Tsobanopoulos YEAR 11 David Tran, Rohan Raju, Ericson Abraham Morkattil, Joseph Susi, Ben Chen, Vivek Gilbert Antony, Jake Vasilevski, Connor Uniacke, Angad Sidhu YEAR 12 Nathan Chow, Shreshth Saharan, Pino Mascetti Mrs C. Polidano House Program Administrator 10
St Monica’s College, Epping has been a thriving and respected secondary College in the Archdiocese of Melbourne since its foundation in 1964. Today, it proudly and rightfully bears the title of a ‘School of Educational Enterprise’. From its earliest time , the College has had imprinted upon its soul the influence of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan of the Order of Saint Benedict. The Sisters of the Good Samaritan are the first female religious order established in Australia , and today they continue their mission in education , hospitality and prayer across a range of ministries in most States of Australia and in Kiribati , Japan and the Philippines. What follows is a dedication to Monican women of the past and the present, and hopefully an inspiration to all female students and staff members who will be Monicans in the wonderful future that awaits our College. Females have been at the heart of Monican identity and life and accomplishments since 1964 and it is apt that several , representative of so many others , are highlighted in this honour roll. From 1964 until 1977, our College was a Catholic College for female students. It became coeducational when male students were enrolled in 1978.
Our Saints Saint Monica (332 - 387 A.D.) is the patron of our College and her life and her devotion to God has inspired generations of Monicans and will do so into the future. Indeed, we Saint Monica Mother Mary name ourselves ‘Monican’ proudly and the name ‘St Monica’s College, Epping’ is renowned and respected worldwide. It is Other Good from this saintly woman, that the College motto ‘Pray and Persevere’ derives, a woman Samaritan Sisters of enormous prayer and extraordinary and Thirty-four Sisters of the Good Samaritan brave perseverance. served at St Monica’s College, Epping in various capacities, mainly in the classrooms. Our Blessed Mother, Mary has always Each Sister is remembered with love through been a significant figure in Monican life a rose planted in her honour in the Bede from earliest days. Mary, Queen of Heaven, Polding Rose Garden. A brass plaque names has played a large role in the prayer life and commemorates the Sister and her time of the school and it is Mary who leads us Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat Sister Patricia Thame at SMC. so faithfully into the arms of the Saviour. Our Lady’s Chapel on Dalton Road Campus Other ways through which the Sisters’ is named in honour of the Blessed Virgin. contributions are recognised are the Our Lady of the Cherry Blossom Peace Garden, Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat rscj the Good Samaritan Prayer Centre on (1779 - 1865) has emerged as a woman of DSC, Helen Lombard Archives Centre and significance for Monicans in recent years. Samaritan Square on the senior campus. Saint Madeleine Sophie founded the Society of the Sacred Heart at the time of Several Sisters are remembered with great the French Revolution and her writings affection. Sister Dorothea Tallon sgs was inspire staff and students now and will do so unofficially and affectionately known as into the future. Her most loving and beautiful ‘St Monica’s Good Sam’ due to the Sister Mary Duffy Sister Laserian Crowe words, ‘For the sake of one child’ greet all considerable time she spent at Epping those who enter the Learning and Teaching including being Year 12 Coordinator, Building on Davisson Street Campus. Science Coordinator and eventually she moved to the greatly valued role of Pastoral Visitor. The Sister Dorothea Tallon Avenue runs past the HORIZONS Centre, The Principals Music rooms and Educational Support rooms on DRC. Sisters of the Good Samaritan served in Sister Julian Quaine sgs worked faithfully leadership from the foundational year until in the senior Library for a long period of the end of 1990. We honour Sister Patricia time and became a respected and very Sister Helen Lombard Sister Therese Quinn Thame sgs (Sister Louis) as the first Principal identifiable figure on campus. She was and her period of service over the initial two the epitome of perseverance and thus the years were memorable and essential to what decision to name the senior library the Sister has become a highly successful College. Julian Quaine Library was met with great Sister Mary Duffy sgs followed and won acclaim and approval. secondary registration for this new College and, as Sister Kieran, she was highly regarded The third distinguished sgs was Sister and admired. Sister Laserian Crowe sgs Margaret Keane sgs. Sister Margaret served as Principal in 1971 until Sister performed the role of Head of the then Helen Lombard sgs, one of the most highly South Campus (now Dalton Road Campus) regarded members of the congregation, took for many years before moving onto the College into new territories in curriculum Principalship elsewhere. Her fame centred Sister Harriet Gleeson Sister Dorothea Tallon from 1972 until 1976. on her astuteness, kindness and sense of energy and adventure. Her Deputy, Sister Therese Quinn sgs advanced the College in all ways including the purchase of land on Dalton Road and the transformation of a girls’ College into a coeducational institution. In 1985, Sister Harriet Gleeson sgs was appointed Principal and was the last serving sgs Principal. She concluded her term in 1990. Sister Julian Quaine Sister Margaret Keane
Governance Kerry Cercone Rita Lekkas St Monica’s College has been well served Elizabeth Dempsey by hardworking and talented women in governance and leadership. Two College Board Chairpersons stand out for special mention, Kerry Cercone and Elizabeth Alumni Dempsey. Their determination to make our school better and distinguished in all shapes The list of distinguished female alumni and forms will be recalled with gratitude by is long and impressive. Three individuals Amorina Chirico Paula Di Maria generations into the future. The service of stand out for special mention in this tribute Bernadette Harris Rita Lekkas, currently serving on the Board, to Monican women. Madeleine Campbell has been incredibly valued over many years. was the first College Captain and she remains a devoted Monican whose affection Current Deputy Principals, Amorina for her alma mater is great. Madeline opened Chirico, Bernadette Harris and Paula Di our Year 10 wing in 2004. Maria are acknowledged as Monicans of Maureen Barnsley Joanne Depetro distinction. The latter two are alumni Margaret Santilli (nee Malone) has been of SMC. Their longevity of service, their involved intimately and devotedly with high levels of competence and their embrace the College community since the day she Patricia Toomey of prayer and perseverance as critical life first walked through Monican doors as a and spiritual values is recognised and pioneer student in 1965. She continues to appreciated by the community. work in classrooms, she has served on the College Board, and she is a recipient of a Principals over the generations have Samaritan Medal. Janet Donahoo (nee Vera Teuma Lorraine Pratt been extraordinarily well served by Robb) described her experience on the administrative staff who are committed first days of the College as like being in to the gift of service. Maureen Barnsley, a ‘close, little community’, and she has Pamela Coyne Patricia Toomey and Joanne Depetro have maintained an enormous affection for this won the admiration and trust of thousands now large community since the pioneering of Monicans and many grateful Principals days of the 1960’s. since the College was established. Judith Clarke Concetta Cartelli Other distinguished female alumni include Kaye Dixon (nee Lowe), Sara Terpos (nee Stefani), Olivia Chamoun and so many staff who have returned to their College as Staff Members members of staff. Catherine O’Brien A cavalcade of distinguished women have served the College since its foundation and Michelle Keele Claire Polidano truly the College has been blest as a result of their talent and commitment. Foundation Current Students staff member, Vera Teuma (nee Brophy) continues to take an active interest in the Fifty percent of the 2,000 students currently Dance students and her encouragement prize enrolled at the College are female. Publicly Angelina Di Donato is a valued trophy for them. and privately, these female students display attributes of compassion, leadership, Leonie Johnson Helen Doherty Other retired staff members whose influence resilience and integrity on a daily basis. has been outstanding are Pamela Coyne College Captain Gabrielle Godinho and after whom the junior library is named and Vice-Captain Keziah Iozzo demonstrate Lorraine Pratt after whom the sports fields servant leadership that inspires and are named. The names of Coyne and Pratt are empowers the community in its mission. synonymous with the title ‘Monican’. They develop and nurture support from their Madeleine Campbell In addition, Judith Clarke for her many Student Council colleagues and potential Silvana Pavia Margaret Santilli achievements and Catherine O’Brien future student leaders. who established the counselling service at Other very impressive female Monicans SMC belong to the ranks of distinguished are found in social justice, values and youth members of staff. A band of staff members ministry activities, sport, performing arts, in 2020 have given thirty years of service and class leadership roles. to the College, what an intrepid group Kaye Dixon they are. These women are Concetta Janet Donahoo Sara Terpos Cartelli, Michelle Keele, Angelina Di Donato, Claire Polidano, Leonie Johnson, Bernadette Harris, Amorina Chirico, Helen Doherty and Silvana Pavia. Olivia Chamoun Gabrielle Godinho Keziah Iozzo
“An explicit way of speaking about the mystery of God in female symbol is the biblical figure of Wisdom. This is the most developed personification of God’s presence and activity in the Hebrew Scriptures much more acutely limned than Spirit, torah , or word. The term itself is of feminine grammatical gender: bokmah in Hebrew, sophia in Greek, sapientia in Latin. While this of itself does not determine anything, the biblical depiction of Wisdom is itself consistently female, casting her as sister, mother, female beloved, chef and hostess, preacher, judge, liberator, establisher of justice, and a myriad of other female roles wherein she symbolises transcendent power ordering and delighting in the world. She pervades the world, both nature and human beings, interacting with them all to lure them along the right path to life.” Johnson E.A., ‘She Who Is’, Crossroad Publishing Co. New York, 2008 B.E. Hanley College Principal
Values Education Mask Competition Gifts on the Table Values Education is centred on the importance The students wrote kind and supportive of embodying virtues core to our Catholic letters to encourage those who are in strict identity. As Christians we are called to serve isolation from their loved ones due to others. As a coeducational faith community, COVID-19. These actions display the love we aim to live by our mission, to promote we should all aim to show towards everyone. the truths and values of Jesus Christ. Our call As a community, we attempted to use our to serve during this time is a responsibility gifts to make a tangible difference in the life held by all. of others. In this challenging and uncertain time of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for At St Monica’s College, we aim to promote a response has become apparent. By placing the value of kindness, compassion and our ‘Gifts on the Table’, Monicans are companionship. An important way to do spreading hope, goodness and love. this was through the City of Whittlesea program to support the elderly in our local Jessie Cheriyan area. Our Junior Council, Values Education Values Education DRC Mentor students and Year 8 and Year 9 Class Captains generously took this opportunity to support members of our aged care community. THANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED IN THIS IMPORTANT INITIATIVE: Stanley Lee Tui Sara Oghanna Sanjita Choudary Anisija Dimoski Emily Mifsud Vy (Lam) Dao Anthony Raddino Jordan Quiambao Isabella Calthorpe Gia Thakur Joshua Licastro Jessica Korlevski Chelsea Fernado James Matthew James Pougioukas Isabella Hazelwood-Smith Abbygail Madio Tamara Petkovska Alyssa Golob Annamaria Iozzo Shakti Gunasegaran Simon Tawfiq Kiara Petrovski Manan Ahuja Lauren Musig Aris Iannella Emily Jovanoski Alana Karalis Laura Yildrim Kate Pavic Natalie El Markaz Luis Colosimo Alyssa Golob Martin Lynton Vincent Barillaro Anisija Dimoski Simon Tawfiq Angelina Pino 15
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