As we welcome springtime the most hopeful of seasons, with its promise of renewal, longer days and positivity, it is timely to reflect on the community.
Recently the John Paul College community celebrated Father’s Day with a breakfast at the College. As I looked around the assembled tables, I was struck by the number and variety of male role models around me. There were fathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, stepfathers, foster fathers and family friends. The importance of male role models in children’s lives can not be understated and is well documented. Equity in all walks of life, in the workplace, in schools and at home begins with respect and understanding. Good role models, of either gender, model this in their daily lives and during every conversation and interaction. We are thankful for these amazing people within our community. In honour of our male role models, I share with you the prayer from the breakfast:
God, our Father
Bless these men, that they may find strength as fathers.
Let the example of their faith and love shine forth.
Grant that we, their sons and daughters, may honour them always with a spirit of profound respect.
Amen
Community connection is important here at JPC. As we move into the final term of 2022, we are thankful for our P&F and Friends of Groups. They are the lifeblood of the College, always there to help and encourage. We will formally thank these groups, along with other volunteers, at the annual Board Chair’s Thank You event in November.
I look forward to welcoming you to our campus, a particularly beautiful place to be in spring.
