Students urged to follow Jesus

Published: 28 February 2010
By: Libby Blom

New seniors: Archbishop John Bathersby meets with four of Marist College Ashgrove's 2010 seniors (from left) Andrew Vetter, James Davies, Elliot Hobbs and Zach Tunney

THE Star of Bethlehem was the backdrop that shone as a constant reminder to seek out and to follow Jesus Christ, at the Marist College Ashgrove 2010 inaugural Mass on February 11.

Casting their own light were members of the senior class of 2010 who processed into the Champagnat Centre carrying lit candles.

Archbishop John Bathersby of Brisbane celebrated the Mass and spoke of his great joy to be a part of the occasion.

In his homily, Archbishop Bathersby referred to his fast approaching retirement. He spoke of his plans to retire to Stanthorpe where he would read, write, climb the mountains "and live life the way I'd like it."

The archbishop implored the students to "plan the life you want to live" and "do not leave this planning too late".

He also expressed a need for the students to listen out for their call, just as he had done. As a young man the archbishop had dreamed of becoming a pilot but a call to priesthood changed this course.

"All of us, young or old, are meant to play our own unique roles in loving God and making the world a better place for all," Archbishop Bathersby said.

"In doing so not only will we change the world, even if it is slowly, but we will also change ourselves in the process as we experience a fullness of life.

"What is needed today is to know and love Jesus Christ, so I hope in the future you have loved God and loved other people and tried to make a difference.

"All of us are called to make a difference by mutual acts of kindness, love, care, concern, forgiveness, towards our brothers and sisters in the one family of God, especially towards those who are less fortunate."

Marist College educates in the spirit of Marist Brothers founder St Marcellin Champagnat, based upon the fundamental reality of God present among us in Jesus Christ.

Archbishop Bathersby encouraged the students to use the life that God has given them in the best possible way, to participate according to their talents in the transformation of the world for the benefit of all.

The archbishop went on to bless the year ahead and the senior badges which were presented to all Year 12 students.

College principal Peter McLoughlin presented the student leadership for 2010 - captain Sean Coughlan, and four vice-captains Edward Burgin, Joe Knynenburg, Ethan Marrinan and Simon O'Hare - with their badges.
The remaining seniors were presented with their badges by their heads of house.

Mr McLoughlin presented the college captain with the college candle and the senior class then made their pledge as college leaders.

Mr McLoughlin addressed the gathering and encouraged the students to think about Archbishop Bathersby's calling from a pilot to a priest.

"Don't imagine it'll come to you through the clouds with angels calling to you," he said.

The principal recounted his own story.

As a 16-year-old Anglican boy he was called by a couple of young Catholic neighbours to jump the fence for a game of cricket - not a holy calling but a calling nonetheless which led to his becoming a Catholic, which led to him meeting his wife ... "listen and answer the call when it comes to you."

Mr McLoughlin has challenged the students to visit the chapel each week to attend Mass on Wednesday and/or Friday morning to encourage their faith and to expand their knowledge of Jesus Christ.

"Get the little things right; focus on learning; commit to success and commit to be the best person you can be. God bless you all on your journey," were his final words of advice to the assembled senior class of 2010.