From Br Steve Hogan fsc
It is hard to believe that another year is over and that this is the last Newsletter for 2023.
Theologian, Karl Rahner SJ, once said, isn’t Christmas a time when God gives us permission to be a happy? So why not? Christmas is also a time when we are reminded that there was no room for him at the Inn. Peoples’ busy lives and expectations kept them from offering him a place to be born. That hasn’t changed.
Abbott, Ron Rolheiser OMI explains it is complex. In the days leading up to Christmas, many of us struggle to do all the things we need to do to be ready for all that needs to happen at home and work. We need to shop for gifts, send out cards, put up lights and decorations, plan menus, buy food, attend a goodly number of Christmas socials. This, added to the normal day-to-day pressures in our lives, not infrequently leaves us with the feeling: I’m not going to make it! I won’t be ready for Christmas! This rarely changes from year to year.
Rolheiser says being ready for Christmas ought not depend upon getting everything neatly checked off on our to-do list: gifts, done; cards, done; decorations, done; food, ready; the requisite number of social obligations, completed. If you find yourself greeting your family, friends and neighbours with a little more warmth, compassion and understanding then you have made room in the Inn, you have taken on the message and purpose of Christ this Christmas. This we can change.
I would like to conclude the last Newsletter for the year by recognising the incredible talent and achievement of our students both in the more recognisable fields of academics, music, dance, drama, and sports, but also in the fields of speech and debating, service and mission, velour, and virtue.
In recognising these fine achievements of our students, I am particularly conscious of, and give recognition to, the dedication of all staff and their hard work and commitment to their students. I would like to thank the College Senior Leadership Team, Mr Bob Munday (DP), Ms Deborah Gillis (AP Pastoral Care), Mr Gavin Russell (AP Curriculum), and Mrs Elke Forrest (Business Manager); the Academic and Pastoral Heads, Deans, Coordinators and teachers. I acknowledge especially too the leadership of Mr Chris Goodman, Director of Mission, who continues to inspire and grow the College’s awareness and response to our call to service – an act of hope. I acknowledge Mr Andrew Wisemantel our Head of Sport who left a legacy in his sudden and sad passing, of a culture and ethos of participation, sportsmanship, the attainment of excellence, and above all, enjoyment in sport at Oakhill College. I acknowledge the hard work of our IT staff, Administration staff and our Maintenance staff who work tirelessly to ensure the College is maintained and functions smoothly and efficiently. I would also like to thank Mr John Puleo, Chairperson, and the Board for their support and guidance of the College.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all volunteers including the Canteen and Uniform Shop volunteers; the Parents and Friends Committee; Rugby and Basketball Clubs; those who attend drop-off and pick up for sports practice, drama, music, debating and the Show Team. This list goes on – to all, thank you.
To all students of 2023, thank you for your hard work, mental toughness, discipline, and determination to succeed at whatever the task, whatever the pain, and to accept both success and failure that are always part of one’s journey. This year is a chronicle, a testament to both your attitude and your achievements as men and women of justice, tenderness, and humility, striving for excellence in all you do, being the best self that you can be. Make room for Jesus in the Inn this summer - be good, be kind, be compassionate in all you do, think, and say.
May the good Lord bless you all.
Wishing you a happy and Holy Christmas and a restful summer.
Because a thing is difficult for you, do not therefore suppose it to be beyond mortal power. On the contrary, if anything is possible and proper for man to do, assume that it must fall within your own capacity. (Marcus Aurelius)
Br Steve Hogan fsc
Principal