Amid our daily lives, some moments call us to pause and reflect on the larger world around us. We are deeply saddened by the recent conflict and tragedy unfolding in Israel and Gaza. These are difficult times, and our hearts go out to all who are affected, whether directly or indirectly.
We wish to extend our deepest condolences to all who have family, friends or any personal connections in the affected regions. As a global school, our community connections extend far and wide. The ripple effects of such tragedies can be profound, and we recognise the impact they may have on our students and the broader JPC community. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with everyone enduring this crisis.
We understand that witnessing footage or hearing about such events can be distressing, and we encourage parents to discuss this with their children as they may be feeling overwhelmed or in need of comfort.
It has come to our attention that aspects of the conflict are being broadcast over social media platforms, including TikTok and Instagram. This unfiltered exposure can be harmful and distressing, especially for younger minds. We urge parents to initiate open dialogues with their children about their online consumption and its potential impacts. If your child uses platforms like Instagram and TikTok on personal devices, we recommend monitoring their usage or considering the necessity of these apps, especially during this sensitive time.
At John Paul College, we remain committed to providing a nurturing and safe environment for all our students. In times like these, we are reminded of the importance of unity, understanding and compassion, and we are so thankful for the connection, community and care that we receive as a John Paul College Family.
Below is a message and prayer from our Chaplains:
We acknowledge this is a difficult time for students and families who have loved ones in Israel and Palestine. We offer our deep sympathies and want to assure you of our prayers for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
You may wish to join us in praying the following prayer:
Living God, today we pray for all the people in Israel/Palestine, that they may discover the courage and humility to build peace together and that they will seek a just path of reconciliation.
For our Muslim brothers and sisters in Israel/Palestine this day, we pray “Assalamu Alaikum".
For our Jewish brothers and sisters in Israel/Palestine this day, we pray “Shalom Aleichem".
For our Christian brothers and sisters in Israel/Palestine, this day, we pray “The Peace of Christ". Amen.
(Adapted from a longer prayer, © WWPPI The Baptist Union of Great Britain)
Speech Night
JPC's 2023 Speech Night, A Celebration of Excellence, was an incredible celebration of our students' academic and co-curricular accomplishments, from Years 5 to 12. Held at QPAC, it was a night filled with breathtaking performances by our talented musicians, singers, and dancers. We were thrilled to have Theo Conias (2002), as our guest speaker, who shared his experiences and highlighted the importance of self-awareness and authenticity in his journey from being a dreamer to an achiever through JPC’s influence.
“They helped me build the foundations that educated me in the principles of life. They helped inspire me to live a life with purpose and meaning and help me be the difference by never telling me who I had to be but helping me be the best version of myself.”
His words of wisdom resonated with not only the graduating Class of 2023 but the entire JPC Family.
World Staff Day
As the Principal of John Paul College, I have witnessed the profound influence that our teachers and staff have on our students. They are not merely educators but mentors, guiding young minds toward intellectual growth and personal development. Inspired by our College symbol, the eagle, our dedicated staff provides the wind beneath the wings of our students so that they can ‘soar like eagles’. Our staff help to mould our students' futures, shaping their character, imparting knowledge, and nurturing their potential.
Last Friday, we hosted a morning tea at the College to celebrate World Staff Day (Friday 27 October). This year students from our Screen and Media class created this video with special messages from students across the College for our staff. Click here to watch the video.
