From the Rector

During the term break, 18 Year 10 students and 5 staff (Chris Toome, James Lodge, Kathy George, Dani Kind, and Angelo Picca) journeyed to the Tiwi Islands for the Jarrumwani Immersion. This year marks the 20th anniversary of our immersions to indigenous communities in the Northern Territory. In building relationships with the Tiwi people, our students shared science activities, magic tricks, and fishing with the local primary school children (MCPS). We visited the Tiwi Museum to learn about Tiwi culture and Tiwi Design to screen-print t-shirts. The bush camp was relocated from the Tarrntippi water hole to Four Mile because the roads were not passable. The bush camp still included lots of singing and dancing with our Tiwi family. Together we recalled Kurlama, a ceremony that celebrates the new season and a time to reflect on those who have gone before us. In Darwin we spent a few days exploring the city and its part in WWII and Australia’s defence. Our Tiwi guide (Double O, Mr Toome’s Tiwi brother) spoke of the role of Tiwis, particularly his family, in the capture of the first Japanese prisoner of war on Melville Island. The Ignatius Year 10 students engaged with each other and the Tiwi people with enthusiasm and respect. We thank our staff for their commitment and passion for these immersion experiences.

On the weekend, 27 students and 5 staff travelled by bus to perform at Generations in Jazz in Mount Gambier. Due to the COVID pandemic, this is the first time Generations in Jazz has been held since 2019. It was a first-time experience for our students, with the exception of Esther Hopkins, Angelo Fazzini, Noah Chan, and Ben Iasiello who had attended some years before. The Senior Stage Band competed in Division 3 of the National Stage Band Awards. The Senior Vocal Ensemble competed in Division 2 of the Vocal Ensemble Awards. Despite the wet and cold, our group also enjoyed Friday’s welcome concert, Saturday’s concert by Swedish band Dirty Loops, and Sunday’s workshops and award presentations.

A Jesuit education is more than just academic excellence. It's a formation that seeks to develop the whole person, faith-filled and loving, committed to serving others. Hopefully, this will enable our graduates to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

It has been unseasonably cold recently. So, it is timely that the College has commenced its Winter Appeal to support the Adelaide Day Centre and the St Vincent de Paul Society. We encourage you to give what you can of food items (cereal, pasta, rice, tinned veggies, canned fruit) or warm clothing (jumpers, jackets, sleeping bags, blankets). Students can pass these to classroom teachers in the Junior School, and they can be left in the Faith and Service hub in the Senior School. In these challenging times, we encourage you as a family to discuss issues to do with social inequality and homelessness.

We have also launched our annual appeal for the Bursary Program. This provides assistance to students who would not otherwise be able to afford a Jesuit education. The number of students we can support relies on your generosity. The College Foundation is seeking to raise $72,000 from our campaign this year. Whether you are able to give $10 or $10,000, please know it helps to make a difference in the lives of students who need it most. By becoming a donor, you join a community of supporters who live the values of generosity and service and make a positive difference in the lives of students and their families. To donate, please click HERE or contact Belinda Mears, Advancement Manager, on 8334 9356. We are deeply grateful for your support of the Bursary Program and commitment to Saint Ignatius’ College.

Finally, we wish all mothers in our community a very special and happy Mother’s Day on Sunday.

Fr Peter Hosking SJ
Rector

OREMUS (Let us pray)

We remember all in our College community. May our prayers comfort those suffering at this time. May God’s blessing be a source of support in their sorrow and loss, and bring courage, patience, and hope.

Those who have died:

• Maureen Garner (mother of Cameron (OI 1985) and Keyna (OI 1980)
• Trevor Keenihan (father of Sean (OI 1988), Paul (OI 1991), Stephanie (OI 1992) and Timothy (OI 1996)
• Mons Vince Tiggeman
• Fr Eddie Welling
• Fr John Chambers

“Ask and you shall receive … knock and the door will be opened unto you.” (Matt 7:7)

If you would like someone to be remembered by the College community in prayer (even anonymously), please provide details to the Rector, class or Mentor Teacher, or House Leader.