September 1 marked a special occasion for the Diocese of Toowoomba as we honoured the Feast of Mary of the Southern Cross, our Diocesan patron. This date carried deep significance—it commemorates the moment Bishop James Byrne, the first Bishop of the Diocese, took possession of St Patrick’s Cathedral. It also closely aligns with the Feast of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary and coincides with the beginning of spring in Australia.

The title Mary of the Southern Cross reflects the belief in God’s watchful presence over our nation, inspired by the Southern Cross constellation that graces our skies.

Students from Years 5 to 11 proudly represented our school at the Diocesan Feast Day Mass held at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Toowoomba. The celebration also included the official launch of the Jubilee Year 2025—Pilgrims of Hope—a Holy Year proclaimed by Pope Francis. The Jubilee invited Catholics around the world to engage in prayer, pilgrimage, and spiritual renewal.

The Jubilee Year began with the opening of the Holy Door at St Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve 2024 and will continue through to 2026. It offers a message of hope and unity in response to global challenges such as conflict, the pandemic, and climate change.

We are proud of our students for their participation in this meaningful event and for representing our school with reverence and joy.