As we reach the final week of Term 1, there is a palpable sense of anticipation across the College. After a demanding term of academic internals, camps, sporting commitments, and the energetic pace of Carmel life, the upcoming break is well-deserved. However, before we depart for the holidays, we enter the most significant week of the liturgical year.
This Sunday, 29 March, is Palm Sunday. It marks the beginning of Jesus journey to the cross – starting with the joyful “Hosannas” of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, before moving into the solemnity of the Passion.
Combined Carmel & Rosmini Stations of the Cross
A central event in our calendar is the annual Carmel and Rosmini Stations of the Cross. This provides a meaningful opportunity for our two school communities to stand together in reflection. We warmly invite all families to join us.
When: Tuesday, 31 March (7:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
Where: St Joseph’s Parish, Takapuna
The Triduum: Mercy in Action
Holy Week is more than just a tradition; it is the ultimate expression of Jesus love for us. We encourage all families to engage with their local parish to experience these three pivotal days:
- Holy Thursday (2 April): Commemorating the Last Supper and the first Eucharist. The Washing of the Feet serves as a profound reminder of the servant leadership we encourage in our students—the call to serve others with humility.
- Good Friday (3 April): A day of deep reflection. The community gathers at 3:00 pm to venerate the Cross, standing in solidarity with all those who face suffering or carry heavy burdens in our world today.
- Holy Saturday (4 April): The Easter Vigil is a service of transition, moving from darkness to the light of a bonfire, symbolising hope and new beginnings.
- Easter Sunday (5 April): The celebration of the Resurrection. This is the foundation of our faith—the promise that light and life will always prevail.
For specific service times, please visit the websites of our local parishes:
– St Joseph’s Parish, Takapuna
– St Mary’s Parish, Northcote
– East Coast Bay Parishes
While we are all looking forward to the holiday break, we hope you find time to join your parish communities for these services. It is a powerful way to find renewal before we commence Term 2. We wish all our students and their families a restful, safe, and blessed Easter.
E te Atua Atawhai,
As we conclude this term and walk the path of Holy Week, we offer you our fatigue and our hope.
We remember the Palms of victory, the Feet washed in service, the Cross of ultimate sacrifice, and the Light of Resurrection morning.
Inspire us, through the teachings of Catherine McAuley, to be people of Mercy, bringing comfort and hope to others. Re-centre our hearts on your love, that we may celebrate the joy of Easter with transformed spirits.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Catherine McAuley, pray for us.
