This week our Year 12 students have been away at camp, and we look forward to their return on Friday evening. Although we know that the camp has been successful and students will treasure the experiences and memories from the week, unfortunately due to poor weather students were unable to do the Tongariro Crossing. I do hope that our Year 12 students add this great walk to their ‘bucket lists’.
This week we also came together with a liturgy on Wednesday as we began our Lenten journey with Ash Wednesday. Father Mark Napa celebrated the liturgy after only just returning from a month away which saw him return to the Philippines. Although Father Mark claimed that he may have been jet lagged, he delivered a very fitting homily, which he graciously has shared and is included below.
I encourage all to read and reflect on the messages Father Mark shared and to discuss these with your daughters as we think about what we will do this Lent to prepare ourselves for Easter. We have 6 weeks of Lent which will take us to the end of the term, enough time to stop old habits which are not helping us to be the people that Jesus wants us to be, and start new positive habits that help us to grow in love of God.
Father Mark’s Homily for Ash Wednesday liturgy
We begin our Lenten journey with Ash Wednesday, a day that reminds us of two things: who we are and who God is calling us to be.
In the Gospel, Jesus talks about three important Lenten practices: prayer, fasting, and giving to others. But He warns us about doing these things just to be seen by others. He says, “Your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” In other words, what matters most is not how others see us but how God sees us—especially when no one else is watching.
Faith is Not a Performance
We live in a world where it’s easy to show off. We post highlights of our lives on social media, choosing the best pictures and captions. We seek likes and approval. But Jesus reminds us today that faith is not about impressing others. It’s about a real, honest relationship with God.
Think about it—who are you when no one is watching? Do you still pray when it’s just you and God? Do you still do good things when there’s no recognition? Do you still choose kindness even when no one says “thank you”?
Lent is not about proving how holy we are. It’s about deepening our relationship with God in a way that is real and personal.
Ashes: A Reminder of Who We Are
In a few moments, you will receive ashes on your forehead. These ashes remind us of two things:
- We are dust – We are human, imperfect, and in need of God.
- We are loved – Even in our brokenness, God never gives up on us.
So today, as we begin Lent, let’s make a commitment: Let’s not just “show” our faith; let’s truly live it. Let’s pray—not for others to see, but because we want to talk to God. Let’s give—not to be praised, but because we care. Let’s fast—not for attention, but to grow in self-discipline and love for God.
And remember, even when no one is watching, God sees you. And that is enough.
