2 September 2020

Marian College, Sunshine West, celebrated its vibrant past and future as part of the school’s Brigidine Celebration Day.

Now operated by Kildare Ministries, the school was first opened in the 1950s by the Brigidine Sisters. Over many years, the college has acknowledged its special day by gathering to celebrate Mass, listening to guest speakers, having fundraising stalls, enjoying lunch together and having lots of fun. This year’s celebration centred on the theme of justice and was streamed to the community so students, parents and supporters of the college could enjoy the celebration from home.

The celebration featured the college’s lamp bearers talking about the importance of bringing the community together to celebrate heritage, history and core values. Long-time friend of the college, Bishop Mark Edwards, led the liturgy from his new home as Bishop of Wagga Wagga. With messages of solidarity from other Kildare Ministries’ schools and education leaders, as well as performances by students, Fr Rob Galea and Shane Howard, the celebration was an act of hopeful defiance in a time of adversity.

Kildare Ministries’ Sr Louise Cleary csb, a former principal of Marian College, summed up the spirit of the day in her address to the community: ‘Young people can change the world, and we’re depending on you to do so. Become the young women to change the world.’