When I was at school (a very long time ago) it was not an uncommon experience that my school would very publicly celebrate the return of an Old Boy who had been ordained as a Catholic priest. We loved those moments as kids – I wish I could say it was because we celebrated a wonderful young man giving their life to God, but it was much more about our expectation that the whole school would get a day off as a result! Ordinations of past students are not nearly as common today but on February 22, Shalom students and staff were able to be present at Fr Peter Doherty’s Ordination in Rockhampton.

On Wednesday of last week, Peter celebrated our Wednesday morning Mass at Shalom. Peter is a bit older than most who graduate from the Seminary. After Mass he spoke to me about his very clear awareness that there is no ‘magic’ dispensed at the point of Ordination. There is no sudden infusion of wisdom about finance or HR or management that many priests are asked to master. He also spoke about his humility and awareness of the path he has chosen that some men have brought low by their actions. He was very aware of the deficit that he, and so many others, are left to address through their actions and their lives. Even given all of that, he is so looking forward to living a life of service and sharing the hope and joy promised by a risen Jesus. Peter graduated from Shalom in the class of 1993. It’s early days but I think that the Catholic Church I love and the people of God will benefit from the humility and self awareness of a minister like Peter. We look forward to welcoming back to Shalom in the future.

Next Steps Survey all of the 2023 Year 12 cohort will soon receive an invitation to do the Next Step survey. This is their chance to help our school to understand the different pathways of the 2023 Year 12 students and to improve our senior programs and supports for future students. The survey only takes 5 minutes and asks graduates about their study and work activities since finishing school.

This survey gives the College and the Government very useful data about the relevance of course offerings for students. I encourage parents to encourage our graduates to complete the survey. If their contact details have changed, please assist survey interviewers with their updated details or forward the survey to their new address so they can participate. Graduates may receive an invitation by mail, email or phone. The survey can be completed online or by phone.

As a thank you for participating, Year 12 completers will be entered into a draw to win a MacBook Air.

Mr Dan McMahon
Principal
mcmahond@shalomcollege.com