Principal's Message | Week 4 Term One
This week marks the most solemn season in our Catholic calendar: Lent. On Ash Wednesday we will be marked with the Ashes on our foreheads, as a visible sign of our humanity, and repentance. We are reminded to turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel. We look to God and seek forgiveness for our shortcomings during this time. We also try each day, to be a better person. The cross reminds us of the sacrifice that Christ made for us, and in this sacrifice, his love for all humankind.
Traditionally we are called to three things during Lent: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Lent is a cyclic invitation and opportunity for us to become more reflective, improve our prayer life – and selflessly pray for the needs of the world, refrain from indulging, through fasting (and not just from food), and through the generous giving to others who need our help the most.
For many Catholics, there is the tendency to want to “giving something up for Lent”. I know some people give up alcohol, chocolate, and even, swearing! This is often how fasting has been approached. Perhaps instead of “giving up” we might “take up” something that sees our neighbours (even those we have never met) as the beneficiaries of our good fortune, gifts, and/or time. While money and food are important elements of almsgiving, there are many ways we can serve others. Clearly, service is a key pillar for us here at Ambrose Treacy College.
I know our boys will take up the invitation during this Lenten season to spend time in reflection, and to be a humble servant of others, and to do so knowing that Jesus is our model, witness, guide, and friend. I know they will also give generously.
May your Lenten sacrifice be a visible, yet humble sign of God’s love.
Dr Craig Wattam
College Principal
