Liturgy and Dawn Service
Our Annual ANZAC Day liturgical service was held in our College Hall on Monday, the 22nd of April. Coming together in prayer to remember those who have fought in war for our nation, as well as praying for peace in our world, was the focus of the liturgy.
ANZAC Day brings to mind a solemn yet deeply meaningful occasion. It's a time when people come together to honor and remember the sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) during World War I and subsequent conflicts. The service is marked by ceremonies, parades, and moments of silence, all aimed at paying tribute to the courage, resilience, and mateship of those who served.
Participating in an ANZAC Day service evokes a profound sense of gratitude and respect for the servicemen and women who have served their countries with unwavering dedication. It's a reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of preserving the memory of those who have fought and died for the freedoms we enjoy today.
The ANZAC spirit, characterized by qualities such as endurance, courage, and selflessness, serves as a timeless example for generations to come. It reminds us of the values we hold dear as a society and the sacrifices made to uphold them.
Moreover, ANZAC Day is not just about looking back; it's also about looking forward with hope and commitment to peace. It's a day to reflect on the lessons learned from history and to reaffirm our resolve to strive for a more peaceful and just world.
This year, five of our students from various Year Levels attended the ANZAC Day Dawn service at the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne. These dedicated students braved the cold early morning to be at the shrine by 5:30 a.m. along with the large crowd of all ages. Participating in the ANZAC Day dawn service was a humbling and poignant experience, serving as a reminder of the importance of remembrance, gratitude, and the enduring legacy of the ANZAC spirit.
The ANZAC Day Dawn Service was a beautiful commemoration of the brave men and women who have served Australia. I found it was an early start to the day, but it was worth it to listen to the stories of the courageous soldiers. Seeing the Shrine lit up in red was breathtaking, and watching the sun rise during the service was very lovely.
Anika H (11A)
Michael Chesser
Director of Catholic Mission & Mercy Ethos