Catholic Education Week was recently celebrated and is an opportunity for all Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Melbourne to celebrate their Catholic identity, the pivotal role they play within their local community and the strength of the sector. This year’s theme celebrates the significance of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of our local Church in Melbourne.
Christ beside me: Walking in the footsteps of Saint Patrick.
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, our mother Church, is named after the saint of Ireland.
Last week we acknowledged Harmony Week. It is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. Harmony Week is a community celebration. Since 1999, more than 80,000 Harmony Week events have been held in childcare centres, schools, community groups, churches, businesses, and federal, state and local government agencies across Australia.
Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world and we should celebrate this and work to maintain it. Our cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths and is at the heart of who we are. An integrated multicultural Australia is an integral part of our nation's history and character.
Why does orange represent Harmony Week?
Orange has been the Harmony Week colour since the first event was held in 1999. Traditionally the colour orange relates to social communication, stimulating two-way conversations. It aids in the development of new ideas and frees the spirit of its limitations, giving us the freedom to be ourselves. At the same time, it encourages self-respect and respect of others.
Parade’s Harmony Day took take place on Friday 20 March. We celebrated the occasion and raised awareness by allowing students and staff to wear casual clothes that represented their cultural backgrounds and identity.
Last Monday we welcomed our friends from Takada High School to Parade College. It was a lovely occasion to introduce the staff and students from Takada to our wonderful College community. The students have been attending classes and have also visited some beautiful places around Melbourne and have had the opportunity to experience our culture. A sincere thank you to our families who hosted our visiting students and our staff who hosted the Takada school staff. Their staff were full of praise and said their students had a wonderful time at Parade. Our students were amazing hosts.
As we approach the end of Term 1 next Thursday 2 April, on behalf of the staff at the College, we wish you all a lovely break over the Easter period, and remember such an important event within the Catholic Church.
We look forward to welcoming our students back for Day 1 of Term 2 on Monday 20 April.
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