As we embark on another exciting year at Mount St. Joseph Girls’ College, I extend a heartfelt welcome to all members of our community—students, staff, and families. I particularly welcome our new students, families and staff.

Our theme for the year: ‘Be the Light that Ignites Hope’ calls each of us to be bearers of light, spreading kindness, love, and hope to those around us. As we embark on this new school year, we are also invited to embrace the broader message of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year theme: ‘Pilgrims of Hope.’

‘Be the Light that Ignites Hope’ is a powerful call to action. It reminds us of our shared responsibility to be a source of hope and inspiration for all in our MSJ community and our world. In living out this theme, we also honour the rich heritage and values of our Catholic faith and the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph.

Pope Francis has been hospitalised with severe respiratory issues over the past two weeks. Reports say he is now in good spirits and his condition is no longer critical. We pray for his continued improvement.

Heavenly Father,

We thank you for the loving service of Pope Francis and the hope he has inspired in so many in your great mercy.

Have mercy on him in his illness now, we pray, and guide the medical staff in his care.

Grant him peace and healing.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen

At our first assembly for the year, we reflected on our shared purpose and commitment to learning, growth, and community. The assembly served as a reminder that each of us has the power to bring light into the lives of others, whether through small acts of kindness, perseverance in our studies, or leadership in our school and beyond.

On Tuesday 18 February, we celebrated the incredible achievements of our 2024 VCE/VM/VPC students acknowledging their hard work, dedication, and resilience. Their success serves as an inspiration to us all, demonstrating what can be achieved through commitment and a belief in one’s abilities. Congratulations to all award recipients—your efforts have truly shone a light on the values of excellence and perseverance.

Another highlight of our opening weeks was the Opening College Mass, a truly uplifting and beautiful occasion. Gathering in faith and unity, we reflected on the blessings of our community and the journey ahead. It was a moving reminder of our shared values and the importance of supporting one another in both challenges and triumphs. My thanks to Fr Binh Li and Fr Michael Kalka for celebrating the Eucharist with us and continuing to support and care for all of us.

As we move forward in 2025, let us embrace the opportunity to “Be the Light that Ignites Hope” in our classrooms, friendships, and beyond. I encourage each member of our college to be a source of inspiration, demonstrating compassion and courage in all that they do.

I look forward to a year filled with learning, achievement, and, most importantly, a spirit of hope that brightens each of our days.