On Friday our college gathered for a joyous Founders Day Mass marking the feast of Blessed Edmund Rice, the visionary whose faith still guides us. The liturgy opened with a procession of symbols – a battered satchel, a loaf of bread, a candle of hope – capturing the stories that animated Edmund’s mission to educate, liberate and serve.
Monsignor John Woods (Class of ’71) returned to preach the homily. Drawing on Edmund’s example, he urged our students never to settle for mediocrity: “Do your best, because the world changes when ordinary people act with extraordinary love.” His words earned a spirited “Amen.”
We also honoured community members whose daily witness keeps the charism alive. Students Brayden Fowler and William Smith, staff Michael Brennan and Jake Doyle, and Old Boy Paul Scholtens received the Br Matt McKeon Spirit and Service Awards, named for the beloved Christian Brother and former staff member remembered in our prayers. Their generosity and quiet leadership echo Brother Matt’s belief that faith finds its truest expression in action.
After Mass the quad buzzed with music, food and games. The afternoon was an absolute brilliant display of Eddies pride and spirit as we gathered in the stands of Owens Oval to watch the Waterford sprint and tug-o-war. Where we started in celebration in Mass, we concluded with celebration next to our rugby field.
This week is Laudato Si’ Week, Pope Francis’ invitation to care for “our common home.” Francis warns against a “throw-away culture” that discards both people and planet. The story of Edmund Rice reminds us that how we treat the vulnerable mirrors how we treat the Earth; both cry out for justice and tenderness. Inspired by Francis and Edmund, we commit to opening our eyes and hands – reducing waste, planting trees, and standing beside those wounded by environmental neglect.
May our Founders Day celebration propel us, as Monsignor Woods challenged, to choose the better path and never be mediocre in love, service and stewardship.
Carmela Wilson
Head of Religious Education
Assistant Principal: mission & Identity