As we embark on a new school year, filled with promise and opportunity, I pray that this year is one of growth, learning and peace for our school community.

This year holds particular significance as we celebrate a wonderful milestone: 150 years of Catholic education at St Joseph’s, Stanthorpe! This incredible achievement speaks volumes about the dedication, vision and faith of those who have come before us, and we are privileged to carry on their legacy. We have a number of exciting events planned to mark this special year, and we welcome you to be part of them.

A highlight of our sesquicentenary celebrations is our 150th Anniversary Mass with Bishop Ken Howell on Friday 7^th February. This special Mass is a time for us to come together as a community, give thanks for the Mercy Sisters vision and service and pray for the future of our school. Our 150-Year celebration Dinner-Dance is also a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our history and connect with friends. Finally, to complete a big weekend of celebration we’ll join the parish in celebrating mass with Bishop Ken and an ‘old school’ style picnic.

Beyond our 150th anniversary, this year also marks the beginning of a Jubilee Year. A Jubilee Year is a special time of grace and renewal, a time to reflect on our relationship with God and with one another. It is an opportunity for forgiveness, reconciliation, and a renewed commitment to living out our faith. Throughout the year, we will be exploring the themes of the Jubilee and finding ways to integrate them into our school life. We also continue our focus on our school Mercy Values of Service, Respect, Courage and Compassion and explore what this means for us as individuals and as a community.

As we begin this new year, let’s remember the words of Jesus: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). May this year be a time filled with joy, learning, and the love of God.