As we mourn the passing of Pope Francis, we find comfort in his words: ‘Education is a choral work, which always requires collaboration and networking; never remain alone, avoid self-referentiality.’ What better way to honour the spirit of Catholic education than through the Pompallier Shield Competition?
The Pompallier Shield Competition is the annual religious competition between all the Catholic Secondary Schools of the Diocese of Auckland. Students from Years 9 to 13 can challenge themselves and each other in the seven different events that make up this competition. The events range from Scripture proclamation in both Te Reo and English, Waiata singing, and Oratory speeches, all in which participants will strive to reach their full potential regarding faith, expression, and connection to the Catholic tradition.
On Thursday 1st May, Carmel College students attended Sacred Heart College, the host of the competition, and proudly represented our school in each event;
- Senior Oratory – Agatha Godinet
- Senior Scripture Proclamation – Auriel Straka
- Senior Scripture Proclamation in Te Reo Māori – Isabella Foster
- Junior Prepared Speech – Shanel Digges
- Junior Scripture Proclamation – Elliott Hou
- Junior Scripture Proclamation in Te Reo Māori – Rebecca Young
- Waiata – Tolia Palu, Sophie Nehemia, Prisilla Faka-osi, Ziva Pendlebury, Rebecca Young, Holly Rakena, Kiki Hape, Anahera Dickson, Brooke Munkowitz, Phoebe Allen, Ana Talilotu
- Team Helpers – Lily Dwyer, Scarlett Lendrum and Bernie Hoyo Gibson
A special mention for Agatha Godinet, who placed second in the Senior Oratory, and Elliot Hou, who placed third equal in Junior Scripture Proclamation.
A special thanks to the teachers in the RE department who supported and guided the participants all the way through the competition, whose encouragement was deeply reflected in the students’ performances.
The competition was moreover a wonderful opportunity to meet peers from other Catholic Schools who share our values and have a passion towards spreading Jesus’ love! Filled with laughter and friendliness, the jolly environment of the competitions was a true tribute to Carmel’s Core Mercy Values of Hospitality and Respect, which generates deep connections with those around us. After competitions were finished, students had nachos for dinner and bonded with each other, fostering unity and strengthening friendships.
All in all, Pompallier Shield was a wonderful experience, and a great opportunity to show our faith in God and connect with other Catholic schools, challenging ourselves to grow in confidence, expression, and spiritual understanding. Let’s keep this spirit alive and carry our faith proudly!
Bernie Hoyo Gibson (Year 11)
